underworld

USAGE SUMMARY

"underworld" is a perfectly correct and usable word in written English.
You can use the word "underworld" to refer to a figurative or literal place inhabited by criminal or disreputable people, or to describe an organized criminal network. For example: The police were determined to take down the leaders of the local underworld.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"These cartels have spent years and tens of millions of dollars trying to create a secret underworld of passages so they can move large quantities of drugs," Laura Duffy, the United States attorney for the San Diego region told reporters.

The Guardian

In part, moral revulsion motivates these underworld gumshoes, though it's also clear that killing children is bad for illicit business.

The Guardian - Film

Je suis what I say je suis, I beat up queers and stole from churches; burglary became a religious rite, elevating me to poet of the underworld even as I willingly debased myself in pissoirs Rene jerked himself off in a café full of whores to calm himself down, before stabbing the Gypsy boy through the heart for a few sous.

The Guardian - Books

Both wanting to do good – with the union and the gym – but relying to some extent on the drug underworld to get things done.

The Guardian

Repressive cultures and public prohibitions stimulate an underworld that is the inverse, sexually and behaviourally, of the values and attitudes enshrined in the public face of these societies.

The Guardian - Arts

One line of inquiry is following Savile's links to the criminal underworld in Manchester, including the notorious Quality Street gang, who supposedly dominated the city in the 1960s.

The Guardian

Like the psychic – and others interviewed for this article – he was wary of being identified, because his work often brings him into contact with members of the criminal underworld.

The Guardian

For a minute it reminded me of New Zealand's most northerly point, Cape Reinga, where the Maori believe the spirits of the dead enter the underworld.

The Guardian - Travel

The government's failure to provide security or prosperity only adds to this sense of dependence on an underworld that relies on both barbaric violence and managerial agility to adapt to new market conditions.

The Guardian

Thus one entered the shady underworld of "in-app purchases".

The Guardian - Tech

In no way is it about the joy of sex; it is about nightmarish compulsion, a New York underworld.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "underworld", consider the specific nuance you want to convey: is it the criminal element, the afterlife, or a hidden aspect of society? Choose synonyms or related terms to refine your meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "underworld" literally when a figurative meaning is intended. For example, don't describe a basement as the "underworld" unless you're intentionally using hyperbole.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "underworld" is that of a noun, referring to a specific place, society, or realm. Ludwig AI highlights examples where it describes both criminal societies and mythological realms.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Science

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "underworld" functions primarily as a noun, denoting either the criminal element of society or the mythological realm of the dead. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage, particularly in news and media contexts. While generally neutral in register, the specific connotations of "underworld" depend heavily on context, ranging from criminal activity to ancient mythology. Related phrases, such as "criminal society" or "infernal regions", offer alternative ways to express similar concepts. When employing the word "underworld", consider the particular nuance you wish to convey to ensure clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

world of crime

A more straightforward alternative, directly referring to the realm of criminal activity.

criminal society

Emphasizes the societal aspect of crime, portraying it as a structured entity.

criminal fraternity

Focuses specifically on the criminal aspect, highlighting a sense of brotherhood among criminals.

criminal element

Highlights the individuals and groups involved in criminal activities.

shady side of life

Refers to the less reputable or morally ambiguous aspects of existence.

nether regions

Figuratively suggests the hidden or less visible aspects of a society or situation.

the mafia

This refers to an organized international body of criminals, operating originally in Sicily and now especially in Italy and the US.

infernal regions

Directly references the mythological or religious concept of hell or the underworld.

the abyss

Implies a deep, dark, and often dangerous or chaotic environment.

secret society

Emphasizes the hidden nature and structured organization of a group, which may or may not be criminal.

FAQs

How is the term "underworld" typically used?

The term "underworld" generally refers to the criminal world, a hidden or disreputable part of society, or, in mythology, the realm of the dead. Its usage often depends on context.

What are some synonyms for "underworld" in the context of crime?

In the context of crime, synonyms for "underworld" include "criminal fraternity", "criminal society", or "world of crime".

How does the mythological "underworld" differ in meaning?

The mythological "underworld" refers to the realm of the dead, often ruled by a deity like Hades or Pluto. It's distinct from the criminal "underworld" and carries a different connotation.

Is "underworld" a formal or informal term?

"Underworld" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the setting. News reports, academic papers, and casual conversations can all appropriately use the term.