Definition

Relating to something that is beneath the surface or fundamental to a situation, often not immediately obvious.

Example

The underlying issues in the discussion were not addressed.

Conversation

I think there’s an underlying issue with our project’s timeline.

Yeah, I noticed that too; it feels off somehow.

Exactly! There might be some underlying factors we haven't considered yet.

Let’s dig deeper and figure out what those could be.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Underlying → It is formed from "under-" (meaning beneath) and "lying" (from the Old English "licgan", meaning to lie or be situated). The word "underlying" refers to something that is situated beneath or forms the basis of something else.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'beneath' ('under-') and 'situated' ('lying') — that's why underlying means something that is beneath the surface or foundational.

Visually Confused Words