DRIVE TO THE HEART OF THE MATTER
What is the Meaning of the Idiom
DRIVE TO THE HEART OF THE MATTER?
English teaching for English Language Learners (ELL) who are learning to speak English as a Second Language (ESL) or English as an Additional Language (EAL)
Definition:
The heart of the matter is the most important part of the present situation.
To drive to the heart of the matter means to go directly, and strongly, to the most important part.
Right can be used for emphasis.
Note: Sometimes this expression is GET TO THE HEART OF A (or THE) MATTER
Example:
1. She drove to the heart of the matter as soon as we sat down. “Do you want the promotion or not?” she asked.
2. My grandmother always gets right to the heart of a matter. She doesn’t waste any time with polite chitchat. Last time I visited her, as soon as I sat down, she said, “I don’t think your boyfriend is good for you, so I think you should end that relationship soon.”
