be down to sb/sth

Definition & Meaning of "[be] down to {sb/sth}"

to be down to sb/sth

to have a limited amount or number of something left

What is the origin of the idiom "be down to somebody or something" and when to use it?

The idiom "be down to somebody or something" is derived from the idea of reducing or depleting a resource or supply to the point where it is almost exhausted. The use of "down to" suggests that you have reached a minimal or critical level. It is used to describe a situation where the quantity or availability of something has been reduced to a limited or critical level, often implying that further reduction may lead to a shortage or depletion.

to be heavily dependent on someone or something

What is the origin of the idiom "be down to somebody or something" and when to use it?

The idiom "be down to somebody or something" derives from the idea of attributing a situation, condition, or responsibility to a specific person or thing. It has been in use in the English language for many years and indicates that the identified person or element is the primary reason for the outcome or state being described.