underlies

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "underlies" is correct and usable in written English.
It is a verb that means to be the underlying basis or power of something. An example sentence would be: "The corruption that underlies this government makes progress nearly impossible."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Given all the internet sleuthing that has gone on, it's unlikely that a duo or group could have kept secret for this long how they devised the cryptographic protocols, peer-to-peer systems, and economic model that underlies Bitcoin.

The Guardian

Yet it is what underlies the ratings figures that is almost more important to the BBC hierarchy.

The Guardian

By one estimate, bore-holes provide 40% of the capital's water; and south Delhi's groundwater, which underlies the offices of India's Central Groundwater Authority, is being depleted by up to three metres a year.

The Economist

Simon Segars, the chief executive of ARM, a British company whose technology underlies the chips in almost every smartphone, thinks that the phone is becoming a "hub" from which other connected gadgets will be controlled.

The Economist

This helped foster an independent spirit that was evident long before oil; until the late 19th century, an Orcadian diaspora ran much of Canada, through its prominence in the Hudson Bay Company.Indeed, it was this that enabled the islanders to drive a hard revenue-sharing bargain with the oil industry, which underlies their wealth.

The Economist

General disorder followed, including clashes in Dili between easterners and westerners.The present campaign for the influential but largely ceremonial presidency has only widened the rift that underlies all of this: that between Mr Alkatiri's Fretilin, which had been the independence movement's political wing, and Xanana Gusmão, the current president, who was its military leader.

The Economist

Probably because cheering one's flag is still one of the event's main selling points, and a free market in athletes would endanger the national pride that still underlies the event's commercial success.

The Economist

But he strongly denies J Street's second claim and the assumption that underlies it, which is that America's pro-Israel stance in the Middle East is primarily a function of pressure exerted by the Jewish community through the "Israel Lobby" in Washington.

The Economist

How can vigorous attempts to colonise the occupied territories be reconciled with Israel's claim to accept 242 and the principle of land for peace that underlies it?They can't.

The Economist

Sudan may want a seat on the Security Council, but it still drops bombs on UN aircraft.The contradictions spring from the power strucure that underlies all Sudan's politics.

The Economist

But the trend that underlies and helps explain these matters is rarely talked about.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "underlies", ensure the sentence clearly identifies both the underlying cause or principle and the resulting effect or phenomenon. This ensures clarity and strengthens the logical connection.

Common error

Avoid using "underlies" when describing a mere association or correlation. This word signifies a deeper, foundational relationship, not just a superficial connection.

Linguistic Context

The verb "underlies" functions to establish a causal or foundational relationship between two elements. It indicates that one thing forms the basis or root of another. Ludwig examples show its use in contexts ranging from economic models to societal structures.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the verb "underlies" is a versatile term that describes a foundational or causal relationship. Ludwig AI confirms the word is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news and media contexts. When writing, ensure that the relationship you're describing is truly foundational, and not just a superficial association. Consider alternatives like "is the foundation of" or "is at the root of" to achieve greater precision. By understanding its function and communicative purpose, you can effectively use "underlies" to provide insightful explanations in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is the foundation of

This alternative emphasizes the role of a base or starting point.

forms the basis of

This phrase highlights the creation of a fundamental structure.

is at the root of

Focuses on the origin or cause of something.

is the cause of

Directly indicates a causal relationship.

is the reason for

Highlights the rationale or explanation behind something.

is responsible for

Indicates accountability or origination.

is the driving force behind

Emphasizes the energy or motivation.

is the key factor in

Identifies a crucial element influencing an outcome.

grounds

A more concise way of saying something is based upon a foundation.

supports

This suggests the act of upholding or sustaining.

FAQs

How is "underlies" typically used in a sentence?

The word "underlies" is used to indicate that something is the basic cause, reason, or foundation of something else. For example, "The economic policy underlies the current prosperity."

What are some alternatives to using "underlies" in writing?

You can use alternatives like "is the foundation of", "forms the basis of", or "is at the root of" depending on the context.

What does it mean when something "underlies" a problem?

When something "underlies" a problem, it means it is a fundamental or root cause that is often not immediately obvious. Addressing the underlying cause is essential for solving the problem effectively.

Is there a difference between "underlies" and "influences"?

"Underlies" suggests a foundational or causal relationship, whereas "influences" indicates a less direct effect. The corruption that "underlies" the government is very impactful, but can also be a secret. In contrast, many things can "influence" the government such as public opinion.