What does the phrasal verb “lie behind” mean?

What are the definitions of “lie behind”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. To be the cause or explanation of something.

  Arrange a chat about what lies behind her hatred and try to be sympathetic.

• 2. To be the reason or cause of something.

  We’d like to know what lay behind her decision to change her will.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “lie behind”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb lie behind is to be the cause or explanation of something. It is often used to describe the reason or motivation for a person's actions or decisions.

What are the different verb forms of “lie behind”?

Root Verb	lie behind
Third Person Singular Present	lies behind
Present Participle	lying behind
Simple Past	lay behind
Past Participle	lain behind

Example

The reasons that lie behind her decision are unclear.

Example

A deep sense of insecurity lies behind his constant need for approval.

Example

The true motives lying behind his actions remain a mystery.

Example

A hidden agenda lay behind her sudden change of heart.

Example

The factors that have lain behind the company's success are now being studied.

What kind of phrasal verb is “lie behind”?

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a transitive and intransitive verb?
- A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.)
- An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)

Intransitive verb

“lie behind” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.

Example

The reasons that lie behind her decision are unclear.

Example

A deep sense of insecurity lies behind his constant need for approval.

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb?
- A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle.
- An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.

Inseparable

“lie behind” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.

Example

The reasons that lie behind her decision are unclear.

Example

A deep sense of insecurity lies behind his constant need for approval.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “lie behind”?

Lie behind the scenes

To be hidden or not immediately apparent, often referring to the inner workings or hidden aspects of a situation.

Example

Many complex factors lie behind the scenes of this political crisis.

Lie at the heart of

To be the central or most important aspect of something.

Example

Trust and communication lie at the heart of any successful relationship.

Lie in wait

To wait secretly or in hiding, especially with the intention of doing something unexpected or harmful.

Example

The predator lay in wait for its prey to come closer.

Good things to know

Does “lie behind” have an informal or formal tone?

Lie behind is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal writing or discussions.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “lie behind”?

Synonyms

• cause
• underlie
• form the basis
• be the reason
• be the cause
• be the explanation
• be the basis

Antonyms for {keyword}

• result from
• arise from
• emerge from
• follow from
• stem from