Bottom of the Barrel: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Bottom of the Barrel” mean?

"Bottom of the Barrel" means the lowest or worst possible option or choice.

What context can I use the in?

Example

After trying all the other options, we were left with the bottom of the barrel.

Example

The team had to resort to hiring bottom of the barrel players due to injuries.

Example

I can't believe they chose that restaurant, it's really the bottom of the barrel

Is “Bottom of the Barrel” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Bottom of the Barrel” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Bottom of the Barrel” effectively in context?

You can use "Bottom of the Barrel" to describe the lowest or worst possible option or choice. It implies that all other options have been exhausted and only the least desirable one remains. For example, if a company is struggling to find qualified candidates for a job, they might say, 'We've interviewed everyone, and now we're down to the bottom of the barrel.'

• 1. Job Search

  After applying to numerous companies, she finally accepted a job offer from the bottom of the barrel.

• 2. Restaurant Choice

  They were running out of time and had to settle for the bottom of the barrel restaurant in the area.

• 3. Product Quality

  Due to budget constraints, they had to purchase the bottom of the barrel equipment.

Similar phrases to “Bottom of the Barrel”:

Last resort

The final option or choice after all others have been exhausted

Example

After trying everything else, he reluctantly turned to his last resort.

Settle for

To accept something less desirable than what was originally desired

Example

They couldn't find their preferred brand, so they had to settle for an alternative.

Scrape the bottom of the barrel

To use the very last or worst resources or options available

Example

They had to scrape the bottom of the barrel to find enough money to pay the bills.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Bottom of the Barrel” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Bottom of the Barrel" is unknown.

Is “Bottom of the Barrel” common in everyday conversation?

"Bottom of the Barrel" is a fairly common expression in everyday conversation. People often use it to express disappointment or frustration when they have to settle for the least desirable option.

What tone does “Bottom of the Barrel” have?

"Bottom of the Barrel" conveys a tone of dissatisfaction or resignation. It suggests that the available options are of poor quality or not up to expectations.

Can “Bottom of the Barrel” be used in informal and formal settings?

"Bottom of the Barrel" is a relatively informal expression. It is commonly used in casual conversations with friends, family, and colleagues. However, it can also be used in more formal settings, such as business meetings or presentations, to convey the idea of limited options or subpar choices.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'After considering all the options, we were left with the bottom of the barrel.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Well, we're down to the "bottom of the barrel".' to imply that there are no better options available.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• worst-case scenario
• least favorable option
• dregs
• last-ditch effort
• poor quality

Antonyms

• cream of the crop
• top-notch
• best possible option
• high-quality
• prime choice