underlie
verb/ˌʌndərˈlaɪ/
Frequency rank: #17,508 of 20,003 in the WORDED list (wordfreq data)
Meaning
to be the cause or basis of something; to exist beneath something.
Example sentence
A desire for fairness seems to underlie most of the protesters' demands.
Synonyms & related words
More words in ranks 17,501–17,600
- transitoryLasting only for a short time; temporary.
- transparentlyin an open and honest way that allows others to see clearly what is happening.
- treasonousInvolving or guilty of the crime of betraying one's country.
- tribalismstrong loyalty to one's own social group or tribe, often at the expense of broader unity.
- unattachedNot connected to or involved with another person or thing; not in a romantic relationship.
- unmanageableimpossible or very difficult to control or deal with.
- unmovednot affected emotionally; remaining calm or indifferent.
- upshotthe final result or conclusion of a series of events or discussions.
- upsurgea sudden or rapid increase in something
- vivaciousAttractively lively and animated in character or behaviour.