bottom of the list

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bottom of the list" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It refers to being at the lowest or last position on a list of items or rankings. Example: "Despite their efforts, the team remained at the bottom of the list in the standings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The Pavarotti people are at the bottom of the list.

The New York Times - Arts

Lithuanians were at the bottom of the list.

The New York Times - Health

But who's at the bottom of the list?

The Guardian

(Haiti is at the bottom of the list).

The New York Times

I was the outsider for this, bottom of the list.

The Guardian - Film

Japan was at the bottom of the list.

The Washington Post

I was at the bottom of the list.

Independent

Race-based measures were near the bottom of the list.

The Washington Post

With this number, Estonia hit the bottom of the list.

The Guardian - Opinion

Most of the states at the bottom of the list were in the South and West.

The New York Times

Stores and malls are way down on the bottom of the list.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "bottom of the list", ensure the context clearly defines what list or ranking you are referring to. Specificity enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "bottom of the list" casually; recognize that it often carries a negative connotation implying inferiority or failure. Ensure your intended meaning aligns with this implication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bottom of the list" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically used as an adverbial to modify a verb or clause. It indicates the lowest or last position in a ranking or enumeration. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Wiki

14%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "bottom of the list" is a commonly used prepositional phrase that denotes the lowest or last position within a ranking or enumeration. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and widely accepted. Its usage spans various contexts, from news reporting to everyday conversation, though it frequently appears in News & Media. While generally neutral in register, it often carries a negative connotation of being inferior or unsuccessful. To ensure clarity, it's important to specify the list or ranking being referenced. Remember to consider the implications of using this phrase, as it can suggest a less-than-desirable position. Alternatives include phrases like "in last place" or "at the lowest rank", which can be useful depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in last place

Specifically indicates the final position in a competition or ranking.

at the lowest rank

Focuses on the ranking aspect, emphasizing the position in a hierarchy.

at the very end

Emphasizes the terminal point in a sequence or list.

at the tail end

Similar to "at the very end" but can imply a gradual decrease or decline.

the worst performer

Highlights negative performance against different options or contestants.

trailing behind

Conveys a sense of lagging or being significantly behind others.

the least important

Shifts the focus to importance or priority, rather than position.

bringing up the rear

An idiomatic expression indicating the last position in a group or sequence.

the lowest priority

Highlights the lack of importance or urgency.

at rock bottom

Implies a state of being at the lowest possible level, often with negative connotations.

FAQs

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

You can use "bottom of the list" to indicate the lowest position in a ranking or a list. For example: "Our team was at the "bottom of the list" after losing three games in a row."

What's an alternative to saying "bottom of the list"?

Alternatives include phrases like "in last place", "at the lowest rank", or "at the very end", depending on the specific context.

Is it always negative to be at the "bottom of the list"?

Generally, being at the "bottom of the list" carries a negative connotation, suggesting the least favorable position. However, context matters. Sometimes, being at the bottom might indicate a starting point for improvement or a unique perspective.

What does it mean when something is "bottom of the list" in terms of priorities?

When something is at the "bottom of the list" regarding priorities, it means it's considered the least important or urgent compared to other items. It receives attention only after higher-priority items have been addressed.