1
2
as in to establish
to form the basis or foundation of (something, such as an idea)
The assumption that underlies their argument is faulty.
Related Words
Dissimilar Words
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of underlie
While the organization engages in a wide range of projects, its underlying approach consistently considers how insights can support outcomes that benefit both business and society.
—
Wyles Daniel, USA Today, 17 Oct. 2025
There was also the possibility that some people taking antibiotics had underlying health conditions that could have also affected gut health.
—Angelica Stabile, FOXNews.com, 16 Oct. 2025
There is also a vaccine that targets a specific bacterium that causes most bacterial pneumonia cases, Singer said, but it is generally recommended for older adults and people with underlying conditions.
—Rebecca Cohen, NBC news, 16 Oct. 2025
As Black and brown reproductive justice advocates have long pointed out, Roe never served women of color or poor people particularly well because of underlying unequal access to health care.
—Seda Saluk, The Conversation, 16 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for underlie
Wyles Daniel, USA Today, 17 Oct. 2025
There was also the possibility that some people taking antibiotics had underlying health conditions that could have also affected gut health.
—Angelica Stabile, FOXNews.com, 16 Oct. 2025
There is also a vaccine that targets a specific bacterium that causes most bacterial pneumonia cases, Singer said, but it is generally recommended for older adults and people with underlying conditions.
—Rebecca Cohen, NBC news, 16 Oct. 2025
As Black and brown reproductive justice advocates have long pointed out, Roe never served women of color or poor people particularly well because of underlying unequal access to health care.
—Seda Saluk, The Conversation, 16 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for underlie
Recent Examples of Synonyms for underlie
Verb
-
Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez have supported his campaign for months including before the Democratic primary in June.—
Jason Ma,
Fortune,
27 Oct. 2025
-
In the document, Steffen, who has long pushed for the closure of Green Bay correctional, asked the Building Commission members to support Evers' plan and start the planning process.—
Laura Schulte,
jsonline.com,
27 Oct. 2025
Verb
-
While several states have passed bills to establish year-round daylight saving time, any changes require federal action.—
Haadiza Ogwude,
Cincinnati Enquirer,
25 Oct. 2025
-
Because Moreno was not yet established, the Diamondbacks wanted an everyday outfielder in Gurriel, too.—
Tyler Kepner,
New York Times,
25 Oct. 2025
Verb
-
The 76-year-old defensive mastermind came out of retirement last season to steady the ship, and even Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin credited Pees for helping turn Baltimore’s defense around.—
Jordan Sigler,
MSNBC Newsweek,
18 Oct. 2025
-
Plus, the Colts have a good pass rush, and the Chargers’ offensive line hasn’t been able to steady itself after major injuries … and there is no way the great Kimani Vidal is running for 124 yards again.—
Vic Tafur,
New York Times,
16 Oct. 2025
Verb
-
All accommodations incorporate a mix of custom furnishings and vintage finds that ground the spaces in a traditional European aesthetic, but a playful mix of patterns adds a touch of whimsy.—
Sarah Bruning,
Travel + Leisure,
24 Oct. 2025
-
The aircraft remains grounded, and authorities will continue assessing any infrastructure damage, including to power lines and nearby property.—
Jordan King,
MSNBC Newsweek,
24 Oct. 2025
Verb
-
Manfred upheld Hill’s decision.—
Ryan Canfield,
FOXNews.com,
25 Oct. 2025
-
Barton said that Tractor Supply has effectively controlled product costs while upholding its promise of everyday low pricing, delivering consistently affordable products without depending on promotional sales.—
Hadley Hitson,
Nashville Tennessean,
24 Oct. 2025
Verb
-
Steven Adler published an analysis showing that ChatGPT repeatedly and falsely reinforced one man’s delusions and psychological distress.—
Diane Brady,
Fortune,
20 Oct. 2025
-
The universal love is the applause, either heard in person or received from afar, a love reinforced by the sense of an instant, intimate family—a life backstage or in the trailer, far more interesting than the often unhappy family left behind.—
Adam Gopnik,
New Yorker,
20 Oct. 2025
Verb
-
North also styled her hair in braids like Dionne and carried a small black leather handbag.—
Charlotte Phillipp,
PEOPLE,
26 Oct. 2025
-
This year, a replica of the Seneca Chief, which carried Clinton in 1825, set out from Buffalo on the canal.—
JSTOR Daily,
JSTOR Daily,
26 Oct. 2025
Verb
-
The critical role underpins the nation’s defense as the ultimate security guarantee, and at least one of the boats is deployed in an unknown location at sea every minute of every day, according to a press release.—
Prabhat Ranjan Mishra,
Interesting Engineering,
20 Oct. 2025
-
Ofcom has announced that this will not change, but the regulator has updated guidance underpinning these rules following an industry consultation.—
Jake Kanter,
Deadline,
20 Oct. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Underlie.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/underlie. Accessed 28 Oct. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share