Under

Definition

Under is a preposition, adverb, and adjective used to indicate a position below something else, a state of being subject to a condition or rule, or a lower rank or status. It can also describe being less than a specified amount or limit.

Parts of Speech

• Preposition
• Adverb
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈʌn.dɚ/
• Respelling: UN-der

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈʌn.də/
• Respelling: UN-duh

Etymology

The word "under" originates from Old English "under," meaning "beneath, below, or inferior to," derived from Proto-Germanic "*under" and Proto-Indo-European "*n̥dher," meaning "lower, beneath." Its usage has been consistent since its earliest recorded forms.

Derivatives

• Underneath (preposition/adverb)
• Undermine (verb)
• Underscore (verb/noun)
• Understate (verb)
• Undergo (verb)

Synonyms

• Beneath
• Below
• Underneath

Antonyms

• Above
• Over
• On top of

Usage

As a preposition, "under" describes position or condition. For example, "The keys are under the table."

As an adverb, "under" indicates movement or condition. For example, "He went under the bridge."

As an adjective, "under" describes something being below a certain limit. For example, "The project is still under development."

Related Terms

• Beneath: Positioned lower than something else.
• Over: Positioned higher than something else.
• Subordinate: A lower rank or position.

Detailed Definitions

Preposition

• Below or lower than something else: Describes physical position or hierarchy.
  • Example: "The book is under the chair."
• Subject to a condition, rule, or influence: Indicates a state of compliance or authority.
  • Example: "The workers are under a strict contract."
• Less than or lower in amount: Refers to quantities below a specified threshold.
  • Example: "The product is priced under $10."

Adverb

• To a position beneath something: Describes movement or placement.
  • Example: "He slid under the table."
• In a lower or subordinate condition: Refers to being in a position of lesser status or control.
  • Example: "He is under great pressure."

Adjective

• In progress or incomplete: Describes something not yet finished.
  • Example: "The project is under review."
• Below a certain limit: Indicates something being less than a specified amount or number.
  • Example: "The bag weighs under five kilograms."