Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
underlying his success
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "underlying his success" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the fundamental factors or reasons that contribute to someone's success. Example: "His dedication to continuous learning is a key factor underlying his success in the competitive industry."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Academia
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
1 human-written examples
Underlying his success in the agency field was a keen inter est in economic and social forces.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
59 human-written examples
Indeed, it is his voracious appetite for affection that underlies his electoral success.
News & Media
Underlying that success has been his preference for the commercial rather than the defense side of the sector.
News & Media
Thus a firm's managers may be successful without being very good at explaining the principles underlying their success.
News & Media
Underlying our success are a strong tradition of collaboration, close ties to industry, and a supportive culture.
Moisture availability and opening size appear to be important factors underlying regeneration success in this study.
An objective methodological approach, using regression and cluster analyses to reveal the underlying sanitation success factors, has been adopted.
Science
Moreover, this study showed that blended learning, guided practice, observational learning, group discussion, peer evaluation, and feedback are important mechanisms underlying this success.
Science
Pairing physiological and behavioral measurements in response to urban-related stressors improves our understanding of the mechanism underlying animal success in human-dominated landscapes.
The economic anxiety underlying the success of Nazism was reflected to some extent in party membership, which was drawn disproportionately from economic elites and other high-status groups especially for leadership positions.
Encyclopedias
One of the reasons underlying their success is that they provide the flexibility needed to solve diverse engineering problems [2].
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using the phrase "underlying his success", ensure you clearly identify and explain the specific factors or principles that contribute to the achievement to provide context and depth.
Common error
Avoid vaguely attributing success without detailing the specific mechanisms or elements that constitute the "underlying" factors. Be specific about what supports the achievement.
Source & Trust
89%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "underlying his success" serves as an adjective phrase that modifies the noun 'success'. It highlights the foundational or causal elements contributing to someone's achievement. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.
Frequent in
News & Media
33%
Science
33%
Academia
33%
Less common in
Formal & Business
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "underlying his success" effectively conveys the fundamental reasons or factors that contribute to someone's achievement. Ludwig confirms that this is grammatically sound and appropriate for various contexts. While its usage isn't very common, it appears across news, scientific, and academic domains. To enhance clarity, always specify what 'underlying' factors you're referring to when using this phrase. Consider using alternative phrases like "basis of his triumph" or "reasons for his accomplishment" for a slightly different tone. Remember, the goal is to offer a detailed understanding of what truly supports the achievement.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
basis of his triumph
Replaces 'underlying' with 'basis' and 'success' with 'triumph', altering the tone to be more celebratory.
reasons for his accomplishment
Substitutes 'underlying' with 'reasons for' and 'success' with 'accomplishment', making the phrase more explicit and straightforward.
foundation of his achievement
Uses 'foundation' instead of 'underlying' and 'achievement' instead of 'success', suggesting a structural support metaphor.
driving force behind his success
Replaces 'underlying' with 'driving force behind', emphasizing the energy and motivation contributing to the success.
factors contributing to his success
Replaces 'underlying' with 'factors contributing to', highlighting multiple elements leading to the success.
root cause of his victory
Substitutes 'underlying' with 'root cause' and 'success' with 'victory', focusing on the fundamental reasons for winning.
secret to his success
Emphasizes that there is a hidden or not-so-obvious reason for the success.
principle behind his success
Suggests a guiding rule or belief is the reason for success.
key to his achievement
Highlights a single, critical element that unlocks success.
elements of his achievement
Focuses on the diverse factors that compose his achievement.
FAQs
How can I use "underlying his success" in a sentence?
You can use "underlying his success" to point out the less obvious reasons or factors that helped someone achieve something. For example: "Underlying his success was a relentless dedication to his craft and a deep understanding of market trends."
What does "underlying his success" mean?
The phrase "underlying his success" refers to the fundamental reasons, principles, or elements that are the foundation of someone's achievement.
What are some alternatives to "underlying his success"?
Alternatives to "underlying his success" include phrases like "basis of his triumph", "reasons for his accomplishment", or "foundation of his achievement".
Is it better to use "underlying his success" or "fundamental to his success"?
Both "underlying his success" and "fundamental to his success" are grammatically correct. The choice depends on the context and the nuance you wish to convey. "Underlying" suggests a less obvious or visible foundation, while "fundamental" emphasizes a basic and essential element.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
89%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested