Basic Details
Word: Underlying
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Something that is beneath the surface or basic; it can refer to the fundamental cause or reason for something.
Synonyms: Fundamental, basic, hidden
Antonyms: Obvious, superficial, surface
Idioms and Phrases
- Get to the underlying issue: To reach the root cause of a problem. Example: "In order to help her, we need to get to the underlying issue of her worries."
- Underlying current: A hidden feeling or influence that affects a situation. Example: "There was an underlying current of excitement in the classroom before the school trip."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The underlying cause of his sadness was his missing friends from school.
Example 2: Scientists are studying the underlying factors that contribute to climate change.
Example 3: Although the painting looks simple, it has an underlying meaning about freedom and hope.
Fun Fact
The word "underlying" comes from the combination of "under," which means beneath, and "lying," meaning to be positioned. This reflects how it refers to something that lies beneath the obvious surface.
Famous Quote
"The underlying truth of science is that it is a process of discovering the beauty within the world." - Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "underlying" mean?
a) Very clear
b) Buried under the surface
c) Very bright
d) Outside
Answer: b) Buried under the surface
2. Which of these is a synonym of "underlying"?
a) Obvious
b) Hidden
c) Superficial
d) Apparent
Answer: b) Hidden
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "underlying"?
a) Fundamental
b) Basic
c) Obvious
d) Hidden
Answer: c) Obvious
4. Which sentence uses "underlying" correctly?
a) The underlying atmosphere of the party was dull and boring.
b) The underlying joy of the event could be felt by everyone.
c) She had an underlying hat on her head.
d) The underlying flower was bright and beautiful.
Answer: b) The underlying joy of the event could be felt by everyone.
5. Which idiom best represents the idea of something "underlying"?
a) Get to the underlying issue
b) Like a duck to water
c) The early bird catches the worm
d) At the drop of a hat
Answer: a) Get to the underlying issue
