
Be/lie at the bottom of something
Uncover Hidden Causes
Used to reveal deep-seated reasons behind actions or situations.

He believed that selfishness lay at the bottom of their refusal to help.
Figurative Use
The phrase is often used metaphorically and not to be taken literally.

Curiosity is what lay at the bottom of her constant questioning.
Emotional Connotation
May imply a negative or serious underlying issue.

Jealousy lay at the bottom of his outburst.
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