Translation guide
To discover the real truth or cause of something, especially after investigation.
To find out the real reason or facts behind a situation, often after effort or investigation.
A formal and direct way to say 'get to the bottom of the truth'. Used in serious contexts like investigations or scandals.
警察は事件の真相を究明している。
The police are getting to the bottom of the incident.
Means 'to pinpoint the cause'. Commonly used when investigating the root of a problem or accident.
Do not translate 'bottom' literally as 底 (そこ). The phrase is idiomatic and means to uncover the truth or cause.
事故の原因を突き止めるために調査が行われた。
An investigation was conducted to get to the bottom of the accident.
Literally 'solve the mystery'. Used when the truth is hidden or puzzling, like in a detective story.
彼はその奇妙な出来事の謎を解こうとしている。
He is trying to get to the bottom of that strange event.
Means 'to investigate thoroughly'. Emphasizes the depth of the investigation rather than just finding the answer.
この問題を徹底的に調べて、何が起きたのか明らかにしよう。
Let's get to the bottom of this issue and clarify what happened.
Literally 'approach the core'. A more dramatic way to say getting to the heart of the matter, often used in journalism.
記者はスキャンダルの核心に迫ろうとしている。
The reporter is trying to get to the bottom of the scandal.