below

USAGE SUMMARY

The word “below” is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that is lower in position, or to refer to information that is provided further down on a page or document. Example: Please refer to the instructions provided below.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Travel

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The chart below looks at the top host countries for FDI in 2013.

The Guardian

It is as if we are the only people on earth, until there's a sudden movement far below from one of the Amerindians, walking across a clearing in the jungle.

The Guardian - Travel

In the curry recipe below, Indian spices just play footmen to these local ingredients.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The video player below is timed to start with the invasion footage.

The Guardian

Below, Guardian editors and staff nominate their pick for Person of the Year.

The Guardian

Below are a selection of views from Guardian readers - and you can add to the debate in the comments section below.

The Guardian

Below, you might feel like tearing your hair out.

The Guardian

Let us know in the comments section below.

The New York Times

Let us know below.

The New York Times

Tell us about your experience in the comment section below.

The New York Times

Let us know what you think in the comments below.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "below" to refer to content in a document or webpage, ensure there is a clear visual cue (e.g., a line, heading, or spatial arrangement) to guide the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "below" when "under" is more appropriate to indicate direct physical contact or containment. For instance, say "the cat is under the table" rather than "below" it.

Linguistic Context

The word "below" functions primarily as an adverb and a preposition. As an adverb, it indicates a lower position or a later point in a text. As a preposition, it specifies something is lower in relation to something else. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Travel

15%

Lifestyle

10%

Less common in

Sport

5%

Business

5%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "below" is a versatile word used as both an adverb and a preposition to denote a lower position or to refer to subsequent content. Ludwig AI confirms it as grammatically correct and appropriate for use in various contexts. It’s highly frequent in News & Media, Travel, and Lifestyle writing. While generally neutral in register, its precise meaning depends on the context, making it essential to differentiate its usage from similar terms like "under" or "beneath". Remember to clearly indicate what is positioned "below" when referring to document content to prevent ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

under

Indicates a lower position, similar to "below" but often implies direct contact or covering.

beneath

A more formal synonym for "below", suggesting a lower position or status.

underneath

Emphasizes a hidden or covered lower position compared to "below".

down from

Describes a position lower than a reference point, focusing on movement or direction.

lower than

Specifically compares the relative position or value, unlike the more general "below".

downstream of

Refers specifically to a position along a river or flow, unlike the general "below".

south of

Specifies a direction relative to a location, limiting the scope compared to "below".

in a lower position than

A more verbose phrasing that emphasizes the positioning in comparison to "below".

at a lower level

Highlights the level or hierarchy aspect, differing from "below"'s broader usage.

on a lower floor

Specifies location within a building, unlike the more general application of "below".

FAQs

How to use "below" in a sentence?

You can use "below" to indicate something is in a lower position (e.g., "The basement is below the ground floor.") or to refer to information appearing later in a text (e.g., "See the chart below for more details.").

What can I say instead of "below"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "under", "beneath", or "underneath" if you mean a lower position. If you're referring to something further down in a text, you could use "see later".

Which is correct, "below" or "underneath"?

"Below" and "underneath" are both correct but have slightly different nuances. "Below" generally indicates a lower position, while "underneath" often suggests being covered or hidden.

What's the difference between "below" and "under"?

"Below" indicates a lower position, not necessarily in direct contact. "Under" implies a lower position and often suggests direct physical contact or covering. For example, "the water is below the boat" versus "the rug is under the table".