on the bottom

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'on the bottom' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to refer to an object's position in relation to the surface it is on, or to the last item in a list. For example: "On the bottom of the box, I found a few puzzle pieces I had misplaced."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It remains on the bottom.

The New York Times

They're focused on the bottom line.

The New York Times

"Wait, they're round on the bottom?

The New York Times

Me on the bottom".

The New York Times - Arts

The paint was peeling on the bottom.

The New Yorker

Ashima sleeps on the bottom bunk.

The New Yorker

Now we were on the bottom level.

The New York Times

It was on the bottom.

The New York Times - Style

Focus on the bottom line!

Forbes

His emphasis was on the bottom line.

Forbes

WINNER Kisses On The Bottom - Paul Mccartney.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "on the bottom" to describe a physical location, ensure the context clearly indicates what the object is positioned on (e.g., "The label is on the bottom of the box.").

Common error

Avoid using "on the bottom" to refer to the least important aspect of something if a more appropriate term like "least prioritized" or "secondary" would be clearer. "On the bottom" is best reserved for literal, physical placements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the bottom" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate location or position. As shown in Ludwig's examples, it clarifies where something is situated in relation to a surface or level.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

30%

News & Media

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on the bottom" is a common and grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to specify location or position. As confirmed by Ludwig AI and supported by numerous examples, it's versatile enough for various contexts, ranging from physical descriptions to hierarchical rankings. While generally neutral in register, it's important to ensure clarity by using more specific terms when referring to abstract concepts instead of physical locations. Predominantly found in "Wiki", "News & Media", and "Science" sources, its wide applicability makes it a valuable addition to one's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at the base

Focuses on the lowest part or foundation of something.

at the foot

Implies being located at the lower end or part, often of a mountain or structure.

below

A simpler term indicating a lower position or level.

underneath

Suggests being directly under something else.

at the lowest point

Emphasizes the position as the absolute lowest.

on the lower level

Specifies location on a physically lower floor or plane.

at the bottommost part

Highlights the extreme bottom position.

in the nethermost region

A more formal or literary way to indicate the lowest area.

at the infrastructure

Referring to the base or foundation of a system or organization.

in the depths

Suggests being deeply located at the bottom of something, often water or a container.

FAQs

How can I use "on the bottom" in a sentence?

You can use "on the bottom" to describe the position of an object relative to a surface, such as "The instructions are printed on the bottom of the page", or to describe a position in a ranking, such as "That team is on the bottom of the league table".

What are some alternatives to saying "on the bottom"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "at the base", "underneath", or "at the foot".

Is it correct to say "at the bottom" instead of "on the bottom"?

While both are commonly used, "on the bottom" typically implies a surface, while "at the bottom" can refer to a more general location. For example, "the label is on the bottom of the box" versus "the well is at the bottom of the hill".

When should I not use the phrase "on the bottom"?

Avoid using "on the bottom" when referring to abstract concepts or priorities. In such cases, consider using phrases like "least important", "lower priority", or "secondary" instead.