What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
underpin
Example
The pillars underpin the entire structure of the building. [underpin: verb]
Example
The success of the project was underpinned by strong financial backing. [underpinned: past tense]
underlie
Example
The fear of failure underlies his reluctance to take risks. [underlies: present tense]
Example
The research is based on the assumption that certain cultural values underlie behavior. [underlie: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Underpin is more commonly used than underlie in everyday language, especially in technical or construction-related contexts. Underlie is more commonly used in academic or theoretical writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between underpin and underlie?
Both underpin and underlie are formal words that are often used in academic or technical writing. However, underlie may have a slightly more formal connotation due to its emphasis on theoretical concepts and ideas.
