when you get down to it

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "when you get down to it" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize the essential or fundamental aspect of a situation or argument after considering all the details. Example: "When you get down to it, the most important thing is that we work together as a team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"When you get down to it," one told the other, "it's really all just fiction".

The New York Times

THE fashion trade, when you get down to it, is just an endless competition.

The New York Times

Computer security, when you get down to it, is really about risk management.

The Economist

The hippies, when you get down to it, were pretty conformist in their own way.

The New York Times

Which means, when you get down to it, that the truth is true.

The New Yorker

It's a tricky old situation when you get down to it.

The Guardian - Opinion

"When you get down to it, he's very evasive," Larry LoVecchio said.

The New York Times - Sports

When you get down to it, there are two big problems facing private equity.

The New York Times

When you get down to it, it's gym gear you can wear to the shops.

The Guardian - Opinion

We've contacted his agent, but when you get down to it, realism sets in".

The New York Times - Sports

When you get down to it, as a printmaker Mr. Close is a process artist.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "when you get down to it" to introduce a key point after presenting background information or considering various factors. It helps to focus the reader's attention on the most important aspect of the discussion.

Common error

Avoid using "when you get down to it" in situations where the point is already obvious or straightforward. This can make your writing sound unnecessarily verbose or condescending.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "when you get down to it" functions as a transitional phrase or discourse marker. It introduces a summary or core point after a period of consideration. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use in various contexts to emphasize the most crucial aspect of a situation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "when you get down to it" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to highlight the most essential aspect of a situation. As confirmed by Ludwig, it effectively introduces a core point after deliberation. Predominantly found in news and media, the phrase also appears in wiki and formal business contexts, exhibiting a neutral to slightly informal tone. While versatile, it's best to avoid overuse in obvious scenarios. Alternatives include "ultimately" and "at the end of the day", providing similar emphasis with subtle variations. By understanding its function and context, writers can effectively employ "when you get down to it" to enhance clarity and focus in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at the end of the day

Highlights what truly matters after everything else is considered.

in the final analysis

Emphasizes a thorough examination leading to a conclusion.

when all is said and done

Similar to "at the end of the day", but with a more conclusive tone.

the bottom line is

Presents the key takeaway or essential point.

ultimately

Focuses on the final outcome or most important aspect.

at its core

Pinpoints the central and most vital part of something.

in essence

Captures the fundamental nature or core of something.

fundamentally

Highlights the underlying principle or basis.

basically

Indicates the most important and fundamental aspects of something.

boiling it down

Refers to simplifying a complex matter to its most basic form.

FAQs

How can I use "when you get down to it" in a sentence?

Use "when you get down to it" to introduce the most important point or fundamental truth after considering all the details. For example, "After all the discussions, "when you get down to it", the decision rests on budget constraints".

What phrases are similar to "when you get down to it"?

Similar phrases include "ultimately", "in the final analysis", or "at the end of the day". These all emphasize the core or essential aspect of a situation.

Is "when you get down to it" formal or informal?

"When you get down to it" is generally considered neutral to slightly informal, suitable for most writing and conversation. More formal alternatives exist for academic or professional contexts.

What's the difference between "when you get down to it" and "in conclusion"?

"When you get down to it" introduces a core point that may not have been explicitly stated, whereas "in conclusion" summarizes previously stated points. "When you get down to it" often reveals a fundamental aspect; "in conclusion" summarizes arguments.