bottom of the bucket

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bottom of the bucket" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the lowest point or the least favorable situation in a context, often referring to a lack of quality or value. Example: "After reviewing all the candidates, it seems we are left with the bottom of the bucket for our hiring choices this time."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Bottom of the bucket buddy.

Independent

After I found the bottom of the bucket of fear, I looked again to Mr. Church.

The New York Times

To proclaim its willpower, it called itself Bottom of the Bucket, but... Dance Theater.

The New York Times

At the bottom of the bucket were three pieces of chicken — legs attached to thighs.

The New York Times - Travel

Place all your guests at the bottom of the bucket and hang it from the ceiling.

The Guardian - Business

It's not just the ballhandler who finds the bottom of the bucket, either.

The Washington Post

Garth Fagan Dance has been around for 40 years (it began as Bottom of the Bucket, but... Dance Theater).

The New York Times - Arts

I have favorites that I choose almost reflexively, and others that stay near the bottom of the bucket.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

In total, you'll need to drill 3 holes: one in the bottom of the top bucket, one in the lid of the bottom bucket, and a third hole in the side of the bottom bucket (for the spigot).

WikiHow

The ends of the two tubes were taped to the inside bottom surface of the bucket with duct tape in order to secure them (see Figure 1C).

CBE Life Sciences Education

Start by drilling a 1/2-inch hole in center of the bottom of the top bucket.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "bottom of the bucket" to clearly convey that you are dealing with the least desirable or lowest quality options available. It adds a vivid image to your writing, making the point more memorable.

Common error

Avoid using "bottom of the bucket" when you simply mean 'the end' or 'the last item'. This idiom carries a negative connotation of poor quality or lack of value, so ensure it fits the intended context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bottom of the bucket" primarily functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun to describe something of the lowest quality or least desirable status. Ludwig confirms its correct and usable status in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Wiki

31%

News & Media

26%

Science

26%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Social Media

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "bottom of the bucket" is a common and generally acceptable way to describe the least desirable or lowest quality options, as confirmed by Ludwig. While grammatically sound, its informal register makes it more suitable for casual contexts than formal writing. Ludwig's analysis of various sources reveals its frequent use in Wiki, News & Media, and Science, highlighting its versatility. When aiming for precision or formality, alternatives like "lowest tier" or "least desirable option" can provide a more refined tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bottom of the barrel

Similar idiom expressing the lowest quality or least desirable options.

the worst option

Directly indicates the least favorable choice.

the last resort

Implies using something only when all other possibilities have been exhausted.

the dregs

Refers to the least desirable or valuable part of something.

the lowest grade

Indicates the poorest quality or rank.

the pits

Informal term for the worst possible situation or thing.

rock bottom

Represents the absolute lowest point in a situation.

the nadir

Formal term for the lowest point.

the lowest ebb

Describes a state of decline or weakness.

scraping the bottom

Suggests struggling to find something of value in a depleted resource.

FAQs

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

You can use "bottom of the bucket" to describe the worst options available. For example: "After the layoffs, we were left with the "bottom of the bucket" in terms of skilled employees."

What are some alternatives to saying "bottom of the bucket"?

Alternatives include "bottom of the barrel", the worst option, or the last resort. The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "bottom of the bucket" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, "bottom of the bucket" is somewhat informal. In formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "least desirable option" or "lowest tier" to maintain a professional tone.

What does "scraping the bottom of the barrel" mean compared to "bottom of the bucket"?

"Scraping the "bottom of the barrel"" suggests a more desperate search for something useful when resources are nearly exhausted, whereas "bottom of the bucket" simply indicates dealing with the least desirable options available.