go to the bottom—(of ships) sink:
- The men were all sick, and the women and children thought they were going to the bottom.
touch bottom—(also: hit bottom)
1. (of prices, sales, etc.) reach the lowest or worst point:
- Prices touched bottom during the depression years.
2. (of people) become extremely poor:
- Until they touch bottom, it is difficult for people to get financial help.
Note: The expression is but partially antonymous in meaning to the phrase go through the roof—(also: hit the roof )
1. (of prices, sales, etc.) increase very rapidly; surpass the expected limit:
- We got here before prices went through the roof, so we were able to get a nice house at a great price.
2. show extreme anger about smth.:
- There is just one problem: Oscar will go through the roof when he hears about the project.