When it comes to using below and under, many people find it difficult to distinguish between these two words. After all, they both seem to convey something that is situated in a lower position, right? While it is true that below and under share some similarities, they are not completely interchangeable. In this article, you will see clearly the difference between them.
Below and under have similarities and differences in some ways.
First things first – let’s define these two words. “Below” and “under” are prepositions that indicate position or location in relation to something else. While they may seem interchangeable at first glance, there are distinct differences in their usage.
In some cases, it is preferable/better to use one to the other.
Generally, “under” implies that an object is covered or concealed by something else. For instance, you could say, “The book is under the table.” In this scenario, the book is hidden by the table, suggesting a sense of being covered or enclosed.
In other words, Under is preferably used when we talk about something which indicates contact. It’s usually covered/hidden.
Examples
The word “below” refers to something at a lower level or in a lower position than another object or reference point. For example, you might say, “The cat is sleeping below the tree.” In this case, the cat is positioned beneath the tree, indicating a lower level.
Below is generally used when we talk about something which indicates no contact. It’s not directly under something. There is a space between the two things or surfaces we are talking about.
Examples
To further grasp the difference, consider the following examples:
1. The temperature dropped below freezing last night. (Positioned at a lower level)
2. The child hid under the blankets during the thunderstorm. (Covered or concealed)
Now that you understand the basic definitions, let’s move on to some more examples that will help solidify your understanding.
Example 1: Susan’s house is below mine on the hill. (Positioned at a lower level)
Example 2: The treasure is hidden under the old oak tree. (Covered or concealed)
Example 3: The swimmer remained below the surface for a few seconds. (Positioned at a lower level)
Example 4: Please place your shoes under the chair. (Covered or concealed)
By studying these examples, you can start to see the subtle distinctions between the two words.
| under | below |
|---|---|
| under a false name under a new name under an obligation under age under arrest under control under current laws under maintenance under no circumstances under new management under one’s breath under pressure under repair under somebody under suspicion under the care of …. under the direction of … under the weather | below average below one’s expectation below par (below the standard expected) below the horizon below the sea level below the top of the mountain |
Now that you have a good grasp on their definitions and usage, why not test your understanding with a few exercises?
See active and passive voice exercises here.
Below and Under Exercises
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