(all) come(s) down to
Meaning(s)
1. the single most important aspect of something
Popularity
High
Professional
Medium
Social
How to Memorize
it all comes down to a question of money
Analysis
This expression is often used in relation to a decision, problem or difficult situation. When you say 'it comes down to something' you are talking about the factor that influences other things the most or the thing upon which everything else depends. Similar in meaning to 'it all boils down to', 'the root cause' or to 'hinge upon'. This is a common phrase you will hear in both social and professional contexts.
Social Examples (Advance)
- At the end of the day, whether or not I keep living in Dublin will come down to a question of money. Can I afford to keep paying such a large amount of rent every month?
Professional Examples (Basic)
- There are a lot of highly qualified candidates going for that vacant position. In the end, I think it will all come down to who wants it the most.
- Claire's proposal is well presented and looks great on paper, but when you come right down to it, it lacks substance. Frankly, I don't think she can deliver what she's promising.
- Mary believes that effective management all comes down to good communication. That way, staff are always clear on what they have to do and on how to do it.