root of the matter

Idioms  

1. The essential part or cause of something, as in We still don't understand what happened; we must get to the root of the matter. This expression was first recorded in the Bible (Job 19:28).

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Example Sentences

“That would be the benefit of an actual investigation conducted by the FBI. We don’t see how you can get to the root of the matter without that.”

From Fox News • Sep. 26, 2018

So we’ll just ask the question at the root of the matter: Why is it still expected that the nation’s top elected duo wear neckties and pants?

From Washington Times • Jul. 6, 2016

No doubt there's some truth in these criticisms, but for me they don't get to the root of the matter.

From BBC • Nov. 15, 2014

FG: Barbara, we're really getting to the root of the matter here because your response ultimately raises a crucial question: what are the respective roles of parents and teachers in this modern, high-octane society?

From The Guardian • Jul. 23, 2011

Or do you suppose this is a red herring and that the abandonment of the gold standard is at the root of the matter?'

From "The Remains of the Day" by Kazuo Ishiguro