under his head

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "under his head" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a position or location of an object that is situated beneath someone's head, often in a physical context. Example: "He placed a pillow under his head to make himself more comfortable while sleeping."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

Put it under his head!

The Guardian

Someone put a towel under his head.

The New York Times - Magazine

"You want this blanket under his head?" She shook her head tightly.

The New Yorker

He remained stretched out full-length, with his arms under his head.

The New Yorker

We left it there under his head, and went home to bed.

The New York Times

He again collapsed on the floor, stuffing a pillow under his head.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

As the train slowed his top half fell under, then his head.

Vice

(1933 46); advisory coach at Susquehanna University, Selinsgrove, Pa., under his son, head coach Amos Alonzo Stagg, Jr. (1947 52); and advisory coach at Stockton Junior College (1953 60).

Encyclopedia Britannica

He puts his head under her skirt.

The Guardian

He hid his head under Nene's wing.

The New Yorker

Without replying, he put his head under the blankets.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a specific object placed under someone's head, be sure to specify the object for clarity. For example, instead of just saying "something under his head", mention "a pillow under his head" or "a blanket under his head".

Common error

Be mindful of using "under his head" in contexts where it could be misinterpreted as being concealed or hidden. Ensure that the sentence clearly conveys the meaning of support or elevation, not secrecy or concealment. Consider using "beneath" if the context allows for it to avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "under his head" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or noun to specify the location or position of something relative to a person's head. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability, as evidenced by its appearance in various sources.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

14%

Huffington Post

9%

Less common in

Vice

5%

Encyclopedia Britannica

1%

Los Angeles Times

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "under his head" is a common and grammatically correct prepositional phrase used to describe something placed beneath a person's head, usually for support or comfort. Ludwig's analysis indicates that this phrase appears most frequently in news and media contexts, with a neutral register suitable for various descriptive purposes. Alternative phrases such as "beneath his head" or "with his head resting on" may be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Use this phrase when specifying the provision of support or care, and ensure clarity to avoid misinterpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Beneath his head

Replaces "under" with "beneath", a more formal synonym, while maintaining the same meaning and context.

Below his head

Substitutes "under" with "below", another synonym indicating a lower position relative to his head.

With a pillow supporting his head

Specifies that a pillow is used for support, adding detail to the original phrase.

His head resting on

Focuses on the action of the head resting on something, changing the structure slightly but preserving the core meaning.

A cushion beneath his head

Replaces "under" with "beneath" and specifies a cushion, providing a more descriptive alternative.

With his head propped up by

Emphasizes the action of propping up the head, shifting the focus from the location to the support provided.

His head supported by

Focuses on the head being supported, altering the sentence structure while maintaining the concept of support.

With a blanket under his head

Replaces the general 'something' with a blanket as the object, offering a more concrete image.

His head cradled on

Uses "cradled" to suggest a gentle support, adding a nuance of comfort to the phrase.

With his head lying upon

Uses "lying upon" to describe the head's position, shifting the emphasis to the act of lying down.

FAQs

What does the phrase "under his head" mean?

The phrase "under his head" generally means that something is placed directly beneath a person's head, often to provide support or comfort. It indicates a position or location of an object in relation to the head.

What are some alternatives to saying "under his head"?

You can use alternatives such as "beneath his head", "below his head", or "with a pillow supporting his head" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "under his head"?

It's appropriate to use "under his head" when describing someone lying down and having something placed to support their head, or when giving first aid instructions. The phrase also appears in descriptions of burial practices, as shown by the example, "He was buried with his body wrapped in an American flag and a copy of the U.S. Constitution placed under his head, according to his wishes."

Is there a difference between using "under his head" and "with his head resting on"?

Yes, while both phrases describe the position of someone's head, "under his head" emphasizes the object providing support, while "with his head resting on" focuses on the action of the head resting. The choice depends on what aspect you want to emphasize in your description.