at rock bottom

USAGE SUMMARY

"at rock bottom" is a phrase that is used in written English.
It's usually used to mean the lowest point possible, especially in terms of price or morale. Here's an example sentence: After months of feeling lost and overwhelmed, I eventually hit rock bottom.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Opinion

Business

Education

Politics

Society

Music

Arts

Football

Economy

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

However, morale among the rank and file is said to be "at rock bottom".

BBC

I'm already at rock bottom.

The New York Times

And we are still at rock bottom.

The New York Times

Have I been at rock bottom?

The New York Times

I was at rock bottom.

The Guardian - Sport

Meanwhile morale there is at rock bottom.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

Despite the uncertain election, interest rates remain at rock-bottom.

The Economist

It also offers home-delivery at rock-bottom rates.

The Economist

It's about tip-top food at rock-bottom prices.

The New York Times

But because of deflation, its bond yields remain at rock-bottom levels.

The Economist

Anyone who borrowed when interest rates were at rock-bottom may be over-committed now.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "at rock bottom", ensure the context clearly indicates a situation that is the absolute lowest point, whether it's in terms of morale, finances, or any other measurable aspect. This phrase is most effective when the severity of the situation needs emphasis.

Common error

Avoid using "at rock bottom" to describe situations that are merely difficult or challenging. This phrase is reserved for scenarios of extreme adversity, and overusing it can dilute its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at rock bottom" functions as an adverbial phrase or predicate adjective, modifying a verb or noun to indicate the lowest possible state or condition. Ludwig AI confirms its usage in various contexts, emphasizing its idiomatic nature. Examples show its use to describe morale, financial status, and personal well-being.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Sport

9%

Opinion

7%

Less common in

Business

5%

Wiki

4%

Education

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at rock bottom" is a common idiomatic expression used to describe the lowest possible point in a situation, whether it pertains to finances, morale, or personal circumstances. Ludwig AI analysis indicates its widespread use across various contexts, particularly in news and media. The phrase functions as an adverbial phrase, emphasizing the severity of the situation. While grammatically correct and widely understood, it's important to use it judiciously to maintain its impact. Alternatives like "at the lowest ebb" or "in dire straits" can provide nuanced variations. It's worth noting that while ubiquitous, "at rock bottom" should be reserved for scenarios genuinely representing the nadir of a condition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at the lowest ebb

Replaces "rock bottom" with "lowest ebb" to denote the lowest point, often in morale or circumstances.

in dire straits

Uses "dire straits" to emphasize a situation of extreme difficulty or distress.

at the end of the line

Emphasizes a point where options or hope are exhausted.

in the depths of despair

Focuses on the emotional aspect of being at the lowest point.

hit an all-time low

Highlights reaching a record low point, either personally or situationally.

in a state of collapse

Emphasizes a breakdown or failure of a system or personal well-being.

facing utter ruin

Focuses on the potential for complete destruction or failure.

in complete crisis

Highlights a critical situation that requires immediate attention.

in the pits

Uses a more informal expression to indicate a low or depressed state.

down and out

Implies a state of poverty, misfortune, and hopelessness.

FAQs

How can I use "at rock bottom" in a sentence?

Use "at rock bottom" to describe a situation that has reached its lowest possible point. For example, "After losing his job and his house, he felt like he was "at rock bottom"".

What are some alternatives to saying "at rock bottom"?

You can use alternatives such as "at the lowest ebb", "in dire straits", or "hit an all-time low" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "at rock bottom"?

Yes, "at rock bottom" is a grammatically correct and commonly used idiomatic expression. It accurately conveys the idea of reaching the lowest possible point.

What does "at rock bottom" mean in financial contexts?

In financial contexts, "at rock bottom" means that prices, interest rates, or economic conditions have reached their lowest possible level and are unlikely to decrease further. For example, "Interest rates are "at rock bottom", making it a good time to borrow money".