underlie

[ˌʌndərˈlaɪ]

underlie Definition

• 1. to be the basis or cause of something
• 2. to lie or be situated under something

Using underlie: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "underlie" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The problem underlying this issue is a lack of communication.

• Example

  A strong sense of tradition underlies their culture.

• Example

  The foundation of the building underlies the entire structure.

• Example

  The principles of democracy underlie our government.

underlie Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for underlie

• cause
• generate
• produce
• originate
• found

Antonyms for underlie

• overlie
• overlay

Idioms Using underlie

• underlying tension

  a feeling of unease or conflict that is not openly expressed

  Example

  There was an underlying tension between the two coworkers, even though they were polite to each other.

• underlying assumption

  a belief or idea that is taken for granted and forms the basis of an argument or theory

  Example

  The author's underlying assumption is that humans are inherently selfish.

• underlying theme

  a recurring or dominant idea in a work of art or literature

  Example

  The underlying theme of the movie is the struggle for power and control.

Phrases with underlie

• underlying condition

  a medical condition that is not immediately apparent but may contribute to other health problems

  Example

  The doctor ordered further tests to determine if there was an underlying condition causing the patient's symptoms.

• underlying asset

  an asset on which a derivative product is based

  Example

  The value of the option is derived from the underlying asset, such as a stock or commodity.

• underlying message

  a hidden or implicit meaning in a communication or work of art

  Example

  The underlying message of the novel is the importance of family and community.

Origins of underlie

from 'under-' meaning 'beneath' and 'lie'

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Summary: underlie in Brief

'Underlie' [ˌʌndərˈlaɪ] means to be the basis or cause of something. It can also refer to something lying or being situated beneath something else. Examples include 'The problem underlying this issue is a lack of communication.' and 'The foundation of the building underlies the entire structure.' The term extends into phrases like 'underlying message,' and idioms like 'underlying tension,' denoting a hidden or implicit meaning or feeling.