B1 10K+

Underlie

UK //ʌndəˈlaɪ// US //ˌʌndərˈlaɪ// Pronunciation

Definition

To be the foundation or basis for something.

Listen to definition

In simple words: to be the basis or cause of something

Examples

• Several factors underlie the success of the project.
• Economic theories often underlie government policies.
• We need to understand what underlies her behavior.

Usage notes

Used mostly in academic or formal contexts; not common in everyday conversation. Be careful to use it in discussions about theories or ideas.

Grammar pattern

underlie + object

Memory hint

Think of 'underlying' issues that are hidden beneath the surface.

Collocations

• underlie beliefs
• underlie principles
• underlie issues

Synonyms

• form the basis of
• support
• subjacent to
• underpin

Antonyms

• overlie
• mask

Common mistakes

• 'Underly' is incorrectly used instead of 'underlie'.
• Confused with 'underlined', which has a different meaning.
• Using 'underlie' in a non-causal context.