Below: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to indicate a lower position or level when comparing height or vertical placement. It often implies a difference without direct contact.

• The temperature is below freezing.
• Please look at the notes below the graph.

Indicates a position directly below something, often with the implication of being covered or protected by the object above.

• The cat is hiding under the bed.
• She works under the supervision of the manager.

Implies being directly under something, often used metaphorically to suggest inferiority or something hidden.

• He feels that this job is beneath him.
• The treasure is buried beneath the old oak tree.

Specifically refers to being directly below something else, often emphasizing being hidden or out of sight.

• There's a storage space underneath the stairs.
• Check underneath the table for your keys.

Commonly used when explicitly making a comparison between two objects or situations in terms of height, rank, or level.

• Her test scores were lower than expected.
• The apartment is on a level lower than the street.

Use when referring to a level that is physically or metaphorically lower than something else.

• The temperature dropped below freezing
• The text on this page is below the image

Implies being directly below something, often when covered or obscured.

• The cat is hiding underneath the bed
• There was a secret compartment underneath the desk

Often implies a different level in a more formal or poetic sense, or when indicating something hidden or covered.

• She found the key beneath the mat
• His kind nature was hidden beneath a rough exterior

Used to describe a movement towards a lower place or position.

• The path slopes downward towards the river
• The company is experiencing a downward trend in sales