The phrasal verb "come down to" is frequently used in informal speech and writing, although it can seamlessly appear in more formal contexts, particularly when clarifying a situation or point. Often, it is employed to describe the essence or basic reason behind a situation, suggesting a simplification of complex factors to one or a few key elements. For example, someone might say, "It all comes down to trust," meaning that trust is the fundamental issue or decision-maker in a scenario. "Come down to" is commonly used when summarizing, concluding, or boiling down information, making it a versatile choice in both casual conversations and formal analyses where breaking down a complex issue to its core is necessary. It carries a connotation of prioritization or criticality, highlighting what ultimately influences an outcome.
B1
PreIntermediate
1. To be essentially a certain thing; to become reduced to the most important or essential point.
In a debate, it often comes down to who has the most convincing argument.
Choosing the right university ultimately comes down to where you feel most comfortable.
When we discuss our budget, it all comes down to what our priorities are.