Below Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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below
[bɪˈləʊ ]
Definitions
written
at a lower level or layer than
Synonyms
beneath, lower than, under, underneath.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| below |
Used to indicate a lower position or level when comparing height or vertical placement. It often implies a difference without direct contact.
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| under |
Indicates a position directly below something, often with the implication of being covered or protected by the object above.
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| beneath |
Implies being directly under something, often used metaphorically to suggest inferiority or something hidden.
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| underneath |
Specifically refers to being directly below something else, often emphasizing being hidden or out of sight.
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| lower than |
Commonly used when explicitly making a comparison between two objects or situations in terms of height, rank, or level.
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Examples of usage
- the kitchen below the shop
- the flat below mine
position
at or to a lower level or position than
Synonyms
beneath, downward, underneath.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| below |
Use when referring to a level that is physically or metaphorically lower than something else.
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| underneath |
Implies being directly below something, often when covered or obscured.
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| beneath |
Often implies a different level in a more formal or poetic sense, or when indicating something hidden or covered.
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| downward |
Used to describe a movement towards a lower place or position.
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Examples of usage
- the sun disappeared below the horizon
- he jumped in and disappeared below
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Geography
- In geography, 'below sea level' refers to areas like the Dead Sea, which is the lowest point on earth.
- Maps often use contours and shading to show areas that are below the surrounding terrain.
- Understanding the concept of elevation helps in recognizing places that are below or above ground.
Psychology
- The term can evoke feelings of inferiority or being lesser, often related to social hierarchies.
- In cognitive psychology, people often process spatial relationships, like 'below' or 'above', to understand their surroundings.
- In therapy, discussing feelings about being 'below' can sometimes relate to issues of self-esteem.
Literature
- In literature, authors often use 'below' to describe physical settings, such as dungeons or basements, creating a mood of confinement.
- The contrasting imagery of 'below' and 'above' can symbolize themes of despair versus hope in narrative storytelling.
- Poets may refer to 'below' in metaphors, relating it to deeper emotions or the subconscious.
Pop Culture
- The phrase 'below the line' in films refers to budgeted costs that are not part of the primary budget, affecting creative decisions.
- In music, songs like 'Under Pressure' use 'below' to express emotional tension in relationships.
- The term is often used in memes and social media to indicate comments or reactions that are 'below' a post.
Origin of 'below'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'below' comes from Old English 'belo', which means 'beneath' or 'under'.
- It has been used in English since the 14th century, describing positions and levels.
- Related words like 'beneath' and 'under' also convey similar meanings of being lower down.
The word 'below' originated from the combination of 'be-' (meaning 'by') and 'lo' (meaning 'low'). It has been used in the English language since the 14th century. The word has evolved over time to convey the concept of being at a lower level or position than something else.
See also: low, lowball, lowbrow, lower, lowest, lowlife, lowliness, lowly, lowness.