underly Definition
- 1to be the basis or foundation of something
- 2to be present but not easily seen or noticed
Using underly: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "underly" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The principles of democracy underly our government.
Example
A sense of unease underlies her cheerful demeanor.
Example
The theme of mortality underlies the entire novel.
underly Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with underly
underlying condition
a pre-existing medical condition that contributes to the severity or complications of a current illness or injury
Example
Her underlying condition made her more susceptible to the virus.
an asset on which a derivative product is based, such as a stock or commodity
Example
The value of the option is derived from the underlying asset.
a hidden or implicit meaning in a communication or work of art
Example
The underlying message of the film was a critique of capitalism.
Summary: underly in Brief
'Underly' [ˌʌndərˈlaɪ] means to be the basis or foundation of something, often present but not easily seen. It is used in phrases like 'underlying condition,' referring to a pre-existing medical condition that contributes to the severity of a current illness, and 'underlying asset,' referring to an asset on which a derivative product is based. 'Underly' is also used to describe hidden meanings, as in 'underlying message.'
