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What does “get to the bottom of (something)” mean?

Meaning, example sentences and a quick practice question.

B2

To find the real cause of a problem

“I want to get to the bottom of this.”

Say it smoothly: “ge-tto-the-bo-to-mov”

From the B2 lesson Sorting It Out (solving problems).

C1

To discover the real cause or truth of a problem

“I'm determined to get to the bottom of this.”

Say it smoothly: “ge-tto-the-bo-to-mov”

From the C1 lesson Sorting It Out (solving problems).

Quick check

What does “get to the bottom of (something)” mean?

Teaching this phrase?“get to the bottom of (something)” is part of a ready-to-teach lesson, with a reading, three exercises, speaking tasks and an answer key, in Everyday English Chunks B2 Pack 2 (Plans, Problems and Feelings) and Everyday English Chunks C1 Pack 2 (Plans, Problems and Feelings).
See the B2 lesson pack See the C1 lesson pack

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