get to the bottom of something

get to the bottom of (something)

To determine the cause or source of something or solve the mystery of something. What is causing this water leak? Has anyone gotten to the bottom of it yet? I have every confidence that our detectives will get to the bottom of this crime.

See also: bottom, get, of, to

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2022 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

get to the bottom of something

COMMON If you get to the bottom of a problem or mystery, you discover the truth about it. The attack was quite severe. We intend to get to the bottom of things and, if needs be, ensure that action is brought against those responsible for it. The secrets of a truly happy couple are ultimately a private mystery, but we've tried to get to the bottom of it.

See also: bottom, get, of, something, to

Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed. © HarperCollins Publishers 2012

get to the ˈbottom of something

find the true cause of something or the solution to something: We’re determined to get to the bottom of this mystery. OPPOSITE: scratch the surface (of something)

See also: bottom, get, of, something, to

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017