at the root of

phrase

: the reason for (something)
Simple greed was at the root of the robbery.

Examples of at the root of in a Sentence

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Like in the Premier League, flick-ons and second-ball chaos is at the root of Coventry’s success in these scenarios. — Liam Tharme, New York Times, 18 Aug. 2026 This was at the root of all their problems, however, in the year of mine and Margot’s joint cohabitation, this become my problem too. — Téa Mutonji, Literary Hub, 13 Aug. 2026 In a guest essay for the New York Times on Tuesday, Paramount CEO David Ellison says CNN is at the root of opposition to the company’s merger with Warner Bros Discovery. — Dade Hayes, Deadline, 4 Aug. 2026 Common reasons your dog is barking Oftentimes, boredom or attention-seeking is at the root of barking. — Madeline Gunderson, USA Today, 28 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for at the root of

Rhymes for at the root of

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Browse Nearby Words

at the risk of
at the root of
at the same time
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Cite this Entry

“At the root of.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/at%20the%20root%20of. Accessed 20 Aug. 2026.

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