Meaning & use

bottom line

noun·Everyday

The final total on a financial statement, or the most important point of a matter.

See it in a sentence

The bottom line showed a small profit despite a difficult quarter.

The bottom line is that we need more staff to finish the project on time.

A note on using this word

In casual speech, 'the bottom line' introduces the essential conclusion of a longer explanation, not just financial results.

Words with a similar meaning

upshotessence

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Make it your own

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