Under: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used to describe physical positioning directly below something else or in expressions involving control, influence, or conditions.

• The book is under the bed
• She works under pressure

Often utilized to imply a more formal or literary sense of being under something, and can also convey a sense of disrespect or being unworthy.

• He felt like he was beneath her in terms of status
• The treasure was buried beneath the old oak tree

Used to indicate a lower position or place in both physical and metaphorical contexts, often indicating something in a lower rank or amount.

• Look at the paragraph below
• The temperature is below freezing

Frequently used to stress direct physical contact or to add an extra layer of specificity about the position relative to something else.

• She hid the key underneath the doormat
• There is a message written underneath the paint

Can also be used to describe being subject to a condition or rule.

• The project is under review
• She felt under pressure to perform well

Describes a numerical value or amount that is smaller in comparison to another number or amount.

• The cost was less than we expected
• Children under five years old are considered less than in number compared to adults

Refers to a position at a lower level but not necessarily directly underneath.

• The painting hangs below the clock
• Temperatures can drop below freezing in winter

Often used in a more formal context, indicating something directly lower in a physical or metaphorical sense.

• The treasure was buried beneath the old oak tree
• She felt a sense of duty beneath her calm exterior

Used to express a lower quality or status compared to something else, often with a negative connotation.

• This product is inferior to the one we used before
• He always felt inferior to his older brother