To the core
prepositional phrase
Completely; in every part or aspect.
He is honest to the core.

Often appears as...
- rotten to the core
- good to the core
prepositional phrase
Referring to the essential part or nature of something.
This issue goes to the core of the debate.

Often appears as...
- goes to the core
- is at the core
prepositional phrase
Completely; in every part or aspect.
He is honest to the core.

Often appears as...
- rotten to the core
- good to the core
prepositional phrase
Referring to the essential part or nature of something.
This issue goes to the core of the debate.

Often appears as...
- goes to the core
- is at the core
Definition 1 of 2

Emphasis on Totality
Use 'to the core' when emphasizing that something applies completely or affects every part without exception.

After the scandal, the organization was distrusted to the core.
Positive or Negative
'To the core' can describe both very positive and very negative qualities or situations.

Despite his rough exterior, he is kind to the core.
Emotional Intensity
The phrase often conveys strong emotions when describing a person's character or a situation.

The betrayal hurt her to the core.
Emphasis on Totality
Use 'to the core' when emphasizing that something applies completely or affects every part without exception.

After the scandal, the organization was distrusted to the core.
Positive or Negative
'To the core' can describe both very positive and very negative qualities or situations.

Despite his rough exterior, he is kind to the core.
Emotional Intensity
The phrase often conveys strong emotions when describing a person's character or a situation.

The betrayal hurt her to the core.
Emphasis on Totality
Use 'to the core' when emphasizing that something applies completely or affects every part without exception.

After the scandal, the organization was distrusted to the core.
Positive or Negative
'To the core' can describe both very positive and very negative qualities or situations.

Despite his rough exterior, he is kind to the core.
Emotional Intensity
The phrase often conveys strong emotions when describing a person's character or a situation.

The betrayal hurt her to the core.
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