1
general::
Phrase(s): *the root of the problem
an understanding of the causes or basis of a problem. (*Typically: determine ~; figure out ~; find ~; get to ~; get at ~.) • It will take a little more study to get to the root of the problem. • Let’s stop avoiding the issue and get at the root of the problem.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs