Underlying (Adjective)

Meaning ¹

In the nature of something though not readily apparent; "shortcomings inherent in our approach"; "an underlying meaning".

Classification

All adjective clusters.

Examples

• The underlying theme of the novel is the struggle for social justice, though it's not always explicitly stated.
• The company's financial reports revealed underlying weaknesses in their business model that had been hidden by clever accounting.
• The underlying message of the politician's speech was one of unity and cooperation, despite the divisive rhetoric.
• The underlying structure of the building was compromised by the earthquake, making it uninhabitable.
• The artist's use of symbolism and metaphor added an underlying layer of complexity to the painting.

Synonyms

• Inherent
• Implicit In

Meaning ²

Being or involving basic facts or principles; "the fundamental laws of the universe"; "a fundamental incompatibility between them"; "these rudimentary truths"; "underlying principles".

Classification

All adjective clusters.

Synonyms

• Rudimentary
• Fundamental

Meaning ³

Located beneath or below.

Classification

All adjective clusters.

Examples

• The underlying structure of the building was compromised due to the recent earthquake.
• The doctor discovered an underlying condition that was causing the patient's symptoms.
• The underlying theme of the novel was one of social justice and equality.
• The researchers studied the underlying rock formations to better understand the region's geology.
• The city's underlying infrastructure, including roads and bridges, was in dire need of repair.