underneath

/,ʌndə'ni:θ/

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Explanation of "Underneath"

Definition:
The word "underneath" is an adverb that means something is located directly below or under another object or surface. It indicates a position that is lower than something else.

Examples:

1. Physical Use: "The cat is hiding underneath the table."

   • This means the cat is located directly below the table.

2. Metaphorical Use: "He seems happy, but underneath, he is very sad."

   • Here, it suggests that below the surface of his happiness, there are deeper feelings.

Advanced Usage:

You can also use "underneath" in more complex sentences to describe layers or hidden aspects. For example: - "The truth lies underneath the layers of deception."

Word Variants:

• Underneath (adverb): As described above.
• Underneath (preposition): Used similarly, but often to emphasize the relationship (e.g., "She placed the book underneath the stack of papers.").

Different Meanings:

While "underneath" primarily refers to physical and metaphorical positions, it can also be used in contexts related to emotions or hidden truths.

Synonyms:

• Below
• Beneath
• Under
• Underlying (when referring to hidden aspects)

Idioms:

• "Underneath it all": This phrase means that despite appearances, there is a more significant or different reality. For example, "Underneath it all, she is very kind."

Phrasal Verbs:

While "underneath" is not typically used in phrasal verbs, you may encounter expressions like "dig down" or "look beneath the surface" that convey a similar idea of exploring deeper meanings or locations.

Summary:

"Underneath" is a versatile word that helps describe the position of things in relation to each other, whether in a physical sense or in terms of feelings and truths.

Academic

Adverb

1. under or below an object or a surface; at a lower place or level; directly beneath
   • we could see the original painting underneath
   • a house with a good foundation underneath
2. on the lower or downward side; on the underside of
   • a chest of drawers all scratched underneath