at the bottom of

USAGE SUMMARY

"at the bottom of" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to the lowermost part of something, such as a hill, a page, a stairway, etc. For example: "We found a hidden message at the bottom of the stairway."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I was at the bottom of that.

The Guardian

Right at the bottom of this post.

The New Yorker

I'm at the bottom of the pile".

The New Yorker

"Probably at the bottom of the lake".

The New York Times

The Pavarotti people are at the bottom of the list.

The New York Times - Arts

The alternative timing is at the bottom of the recipe.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The outhouse is at the bottom of the stairs.

The New York Times - Travel

The woods ended at the bottom of the hill.

The New Yorker

It's the ambulance at the bottom of the cliff.

The Guardian

The River Nadder runs at the bottom of the garden.

The Guardian - Books

The mousehole is at the bottom of the door.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at the bottom of" to clearly indicate the lowest part or end of something, whether physical (e.g., "at the bottom of the hill") or abstract (e.g., "at the bottom of the list").

Common error

Avoid using "at the bottom of" when you actually mean "at the end of", especially when referring to a sequence or process. "Bottom" typically indicates a physical low point or a hierarchical base, while "end" refers to the termination or conclusion.

Linguistic Context

At the bottom of functions primarily as a prepositional phrase. It modifies a noun or pronoun to indicate a location or position that is the lowest point of something. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at the bottom of" is a prepositional phrase used to indicate the lowest point or position of something, whether physically or figuratively. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread and correct usage. It’s commonly found in news, scientific writing, and various other contexts. When writing, remember that while generally neutral in tone, it’s important to ensure it accurately reflects a lowermost position rather than simply an ending. Understanding this distinction and considering alternatives like ""at the base of"" can help refine your expression. Avoiding confusion with "at the end of" will prevent common errors and make your writing more precise.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at the base of

Focuses on the physical base or foundation as the lowest point, rather than a more abstract bottom.

at the foot of

Implies a location at the lower end of something, often a hill, mountain, or stairway.

at the lowest point of

More explicit and descriptive, emphasizing the absolute minimum or nadir.

at the tail end of

Refers to the concluding part or end section, particularly in a series or sequence.

at the nadir of

More formal and emphasizes the lowest point in a figurative sense, such as a career or cycle.

at the lowest level of

Highlights the hierarchical position, indicating the most junior or fundamental stage.

at the endpoint of

Specifically denotes the final destination or termination of a process or journey.

in the depths of

Suggests being immersed or deeply involved in the lowest part of something.

at rock bottom

Indicates the lowest possible state or condition, often implying a crisis or turning point.

down below

More general term referring to a lower position, without specifying the exact nature of the bottom.

FAQs

How can I use "at the bottom of" in a sentence?

You can use "at the bottom of" to refer to the lowest part of a physical object (e.g., "The treasure was hidden at the bottom of the chest") or an abstract concept (e.g., "Customer satisfaction is at the bottom of our priorities").

What are some alternatives to "at the bottom of"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "at the base of", "at the foot of", or "at the lowest point of".

Is it ever incorrect to use "at the bottom of"?

While generally correct, using "at the bottom of" might be inappropriate if you intend to convey "at the end of" or "last in a sequence". Ensure that "bottom" accurately reflects a lowermost position rather than simply a final one.

What does it mean to be "at rock bottom"?

Being "at rock bottom" is an idiom that describes being in the worst possible situation, facing extreme hardship, or experiencing a personal crisis. It suggests a turning point where significant change is needed.