Mastering the Preposition “Under”: Usage and Examples

The preposition “under” is a fundamental component of the English language, used to express spatial relationships, conditions, and various abstract concepts. Understanding its nuances is crucial for clear and effective communication.

This article provides a comprehensive guide to the preposition “under,” covering its definition, structural usage, various categories, and common mistakes. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, this guide will enhance your understanding and mastery of “under” in English grammar.

This article is designed for English language learners of all levels, from beginners seeking to understand basic prepositions to advanced speakers aiming to refine their usage. Native English speakers can also benefit from a structured review of this essential grammatical element.

Table of Contents

• Definition of “Under”
• Structural Breakdown
• Types and Categories of “Under”
  • Spatial Relationships
  • Conditions and States
  • Processes and Actions
  • Influence and Control
  • Quantity or Amount
• Examples of “Under” Usage
  • Spatial Relationship Examples
  • Condition and State Examples
  • Process and Action Examples
  • Influence and Control Examples
  • Quantity or Amount Examples
• Usage Rules for “Under”
• Common Mistakes with “Under”
• Practice Exercises
• Advanced Topics
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

Definition of “Under”

The preposition “under” primarily indicates a position that is below something. It denotes a spatial relationship where one object is directly beneath another. However, “under” extends beyond physical positioning to encompass various abstract meanings, including states, conditions, processes, influence, and quantity. It is a versatile preposition that enriches the expressiveness of the English language.

As a preposition, “under” always requires an object, which is typically a noun or pronoun. This object specifies what something is “under.” The prepositional phrase (“under” + object) then modifies another word or phrase in the sentence, providing additional information about location, condition, or other related aspects.

The word “under” can also function as an adverb, though this is less common. As an adverb, it typically means “below” or “less than.” For example, “The project came in under budget.” This article focuses primarily on its role as a preposition.

Structural Breakdown

The basic structure involving the preposition “under” is straightforward:

Under + Noun/Pronoun (Object of the Preposition)

This prepositional phrase can then be used in various sentence structures. Here are a few common patterns:

• Noun + Verb + Under + Noun/Pronoun: The cat sat under the table.
• Verb + Under + Noun/Pronoun: They are working under pressure.
• Adjective + Under + Noun/Pronoun: The bridge is under construction.

The prepositional phrase “under + noun/pronoun” acts as an adjectival phrase when it modifies a noun or pronoun, and as an adverbial phrase when it modifies a verb, adjective, or another adverb. Understanding this distinction helps in correctly placing the phrase within a sentence for clarity.

For instance, in the sentence “The book under the chair is mine,” the phrase “under the chair” acts as an adjectival phrase modifying the noun “book.” Conversely, in “The plant is growing under the sunlight,” the phrase “under the sunlight” acts as an adverbial phrase modifying the verb “growing,” indicating the condition in which the plant is thriving.

Types and Categories of “Under”

The preposition “under” can be classified into several categories based on its meaning and usage. These categories help to understand the diverse applications of “under” in English.

Spatial Relationships

This is the most common and literal use of “under.” It indicates a position directly below something. This usage describes the physical location of one object in relation to another.

Examples:

• The cat is under the bed.
• The roots of the tree are under the ground.
• The submarine travels under the sea.

Conditions and States

“Under” can indicate a state or condition that someone or something is experiencing. This usage extends beyond physical location to describe circumstances.

Examples:

• They are working under pressure.
• The project is under review.
• The city is under a curfew.

Processes and Actions

In this context, “under” signifies that something is undergoing a particular process or action. It describes a state of being acted upon or developed.

Examples:

• The house is under construction.
• The investigation is under way.
• The contract is under negotiation.

Influence and Control

“Under” can also denote being subject to the influence or control of someone or something. This implies a hierarchical relationship or a system of authority.

Examples:

• The country is under military rule.
• The employees are under the manager’s supervision.
• The decision is under consideration by the committee.

Quantity or Amount

When referring to quantity or amount, “under” indicates being less than a specified value or limit. This usage is common in numerical contexts.

Examples:

• The cost was under $100.
• Children under 12 get a discount.
• The temperature is under freezing.

Examples of “Under” Usage

The following sections provide detailed examples of “under” used in various contexts, categorized by the types discussed above. These examples illustrate the diverse ways “under” can be used effectively.

Spatial Relationship Examples

This table illustrates the use of “under” to describe physical locations. Each example provides a clear picture of spatial relationships.

Here are some examples of sentences using “under” to describe spatial relationships. Notice how each sentence places one thing in relation to another that is above it.

Sentence	Explanation
The cat is sleeping under the table.	The cat’s location is directly below the table.
The dog buried its bone under the tree.	The bone is located beneath the tree.
The children hid under the covers.	The children are located beneath the blankets.
The car is parked under the bridge.	The car’s location is directly below the bridge.
The treasure was buried under the sand.	The treasure is located beneath the surface of the sand.
The stream flows under the road.	The stream passes beneath the road’s surface.
The spider spun its web under the eaves.	The web is located beneath the edge of the roof.
The hikers rested under the shade of the tree.	They found shelter beneath the tree’s canopy.
The submarine traveled under the ice.	The submarine moved beneath the ice’s surface.
The secret message was hidden under the floorboards.	The message was concealed beneath the wooden planks.
The rabbit burrowed under the fence.	The rabbit dug a tunnel beneath the fence.
The roots of the plant spread under the soil.	The roots extend beneath the surface of the soil.
The lost city lies under the sea.	The city is submerged beneath the ocean’s surface.
The ants built their colony under the rock.	The ant colony is located beneath the rock.
The pipes run under the street.	The pipes are located beneath the street’s surface.
The soldiers crawled under the barbed wire.	The soldiers moved beneath the wire to avoid detection.
The cat stretched under the warm sunlight coming through the window.	The cat is enjoying the warmth of the sun while lying below the window.
The child’s drawing was taped under the refrigerator magnet.	The drawing is placed below the magnet on the refrigerator.
The mouse scurried under the couch when it heard a noise.	The mouse quickly moved to a location beneath the couch.
The plumber checked under the sink for leaks.	The plumber inspected the area beneath the sink for water leaks.
The electrician found the faulty wiring under the floor panel.	The wiring was located below the removable floor panel.
The old map indicated a hidden passage under the castle.	The passage was supposedly located beneath the castle structure.
The diver explored the shipwreck under the waves.	The diver went underwater to investigate the sunken ship.
The farmer found a network of tunnels under his field.	The tunnels were located beneath the surface of the field.
The archaeologist unearthed ancient artifacts under several layers of soil.	The artifacts were discovered deep beneath the ground.
The children built a fort under the large oak tree in the park.	The fort was constructed beneath the branches of the oak tree.
The mechanic inspected the car’s chassis under the vehicle lift.	The mechanic worked on the car while it was elevated by the lift.

Condition and State Examples

The following table showcases the use of “under” to describe different conditions and states. These examples illustrate how “under” can convey circumstances or situations.

Here are some examples of sentences using “under” to describe conditions and states. Notice how each sentence uses “under” to indicate a specific situation or environment.

Sentence	Explanation
The company is operating under new management.	The company’s current state is being managed by new leadership.
The country is living under a dictatorship.	The country’s current state is being ruled by a dictator.
The project is proceeding under strict guidelines.	The project is being carried out within defined boundaries.
The athletes are training under intense pressure.	The athletes are experiencing a high level of stress.
The city is under a state of emergency.	The city is currently experiencing a critical situation.
The contract was signed under duress.	The contract was signed while being forced or coerced.
The evidence is under review by the court.	The court is currently examining the evidence.
The economy is performing under expectations.	The economy’s current state is below anticipated levels.
The workers are employed under a temporary contract.	The workers’ employment is based on a short-term agreement.
The bridge is under repair.	The bridge is currently being fixed.
The patient is under observation in the hospital.	The patient’s condition is being closely monitored.
The law is under consideration by the legislature.	The lawmakers are currently debating the law.
The soldiers are under orders to remain vigilant.	The soldiers have been instructed to stay alert.
The students are studying under a renowned professor.	The students are being taught by a well-known academic.
The restaurant is operating under a new name.	The restaurant has recently changed its name.
The data is being analyzed under a new algorithm.	The data is being examined using a different method.
The business is struggling under the weight of debt.	The business is having difficulties due to financial burdens.
The community is thriving under a strong leader.	The community is doing well due to effective leadership.
The research is being conducted under controlled conditions.	The research is being carried out in a carefully managed environment.
The artwork is displayed under protective glass.	The artwork is being shown behind a layer of glass for protection.
The software is running under a virtual machine.	The software operates within a simulated environment.
The athlete is competing under the Olympic flag.	The athlete is participating in the games representing the Olympic ideals.
The experiment was performed under laboratory conditions.	The experiment was carried out in a controlled lab setting.
The agreement was made under certain conditions.	The agreement was subject to specific terms and requirements.
The suspect is being held under suspicion of theft.	The suspect is detained based on the belief they committed theft.
The project is flourishing under her guidance.	The project is succeeding because of her direction.
The investigation is proceeding under high security.	The investigation is taking place with strict safety measures.

Process and Action Examples

This table illustrates “under” used to describe processes and actions that are ongoing. These examples show how things are being developed or acted upon.

Here are some examples of sentences using “under” to describe processes and actions. Notice how each sentence uses “under” to indicate that something is currently being done or developed.

Sentence	Explanation
The bridge is under construction.	The bridge is currently being built.
The matter is under discussion.	The matter is currently being talked about.
The proposal is under consideration.	The proposal is currently being evaluated.
The house is under renovation.	The house is currently being remodeled.
The investigation is under way.	The investigation is currently happening.
The contract is under negotiation.	The contract is currently being discussed and agreed upon.
The new policy is under development.	The new policy is currently being created.
The application is under review.	The application is currently being examined.
The city is under siege.	The city is currently being surrounded by enemy forces.
The evidence is under examination.	The evidence is currently being analyzed.
The car is under repair.	The car is currently being fixed.
The project is under development.	The project is currently being created.
The new system is under testing.	The new system is currently being tested.
The law is under debate.	The law is currently being debated.
The product is under production.	The product is currently being manufactured.
The manuscript is under editing.	The manuscript is currently being edited.
The website is under maintenance.	The website is currently being maintained.
The data is under analysis.	The data is currently being analyzed.
The agreement is under revision.	The agreement is currently being revised.
The plan is under implementation.	The plan is currently being implemented.
The software is under development by a team of engineers.	The software is currently being created by a group of engineers.
The house is under construction, with workers on site daily.	The house is currently being built, and workers are present every day.
The new bridge is under construction and will open next year.	The new bridge is currently being built and is expected to open next year.
The details of the merger are under negotiation between the two companies.	The specifics of the merger are currently being discussed and agreed upon.
The research paper is under review by the academic journal.	The research paper is currently being examined by the journal’s editors.
The new curriculum is under development to meet the needs of the students.	The new curriculum is currently being created to better serve the students.
The company’s strategy is under revision to improve profitability.	The company’s strategy is currently being revised to boost earnings.

Influence and Control Examples

The following table demonstrates the usage of “under” to denote influence or control. These examples illustrate how someone or something is subject to authority or impact.

Here are some examples of sentences using “under” to describe influence and control. Notice how each sentence uses “under” to indicate that someone or something is being directed or affected by something else.

Sentence	Explanation
The country is under military rule.	The country is being governed by the military.
The employees are under the manager’s supervision.	The employees are being watched and directed by the manager.
The decision is under consideration by the committee.	The committee is currently evaluating the decision.
The project is under the guidance of the director.	The project is being directed by the director.
The students are under the teacher’s instruction.	The students are being taught by the teacher.
The policy is under review by the board.	The board is currently examining the policy.
The team is working under pressure to meet the deadline.	The team is experiencing stress to finish on time.
The business is operating under strict regulations.	The business is following rigid rules.
The experiment was conducted under controlled conditions.	The experiment was performed in a managed environment.
The suspect is being held under suspicion of fraud.	The suspect is detained because they are suspected of fraud.
The company is operating under a new CEO.	The company is now being led by a new chief executive officer.
The soldiers are under orders to defend the territory.	The soldiers have been instructed to protect the area.
The investigation is proceeding under high security.	The investigation is taking place with strict safety measures.
The patient is under the care of a specialist.	The patient is being treated by a specialized doctor.
The city is under curfew due to the unrest.	The city is subject to a curfew because of the disturbances.
The country is under economic sanctions.	The country is facing economic penalties.
The project is under tight budget constraints.	The project is limited by strict budget limitations.
The athlete is training under a world-renowned coach.	The athlete is being trained by a famous coach.
The artist is working under a pseudonym.	The artist is creating art using a fake name.
The data is being protected under strict privacy laws.	The data is safeguarded by rigid privacy regulations.
The film was produced under a low budget.	The film was made with limited financial resources.
The students are learning under an innovative program.	The students are being taught using a creative program.
The community is united under a common goal.	The community is connected by a shared objective.
The experiment is conducted under ethical guidelines.	The experiment is performed according to moral principles.
The initiative is thriving under strong leadership.	The initiative is succeeding because of effective leadership.
The agreement was reached under intense pressure.	The agreement was made due to significant stress.

Quantity or Amount Examples

This table provides examples of “under” used to indicate a quantity or amount that is less than a specified value. These examples show how “under” can set limits or thresholds.

Here are some examples of sentences using “under” to describe quantities and amounts. Notice how each sentence uses “under” to indicate that something is less than a specific value or limit.

Sentence	Explanation
The cost was under $100.	The price was less than $100.
Children under 12 get a discount.	Kids who are younger than 12 receive a discount.
The temperature is under freezing.	The temperature is below 0 degrees Celsius or 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
The weight is under 5 kilograms.	The item weighs less than 5 kilograms.
The speed limit is under 60 mph.	The maximum speed allowed is less than 60 miles per hour.
The attendance was under 50 people.	Fewer than 50 people attended.
The project finished under budget.	The project cost less than the allocated budget.
The debt is under control.	The amount of debt is at a manageable level.
The age requirement is under 30 years old.	Applicants must be younger than 30 years old.
The pressure is under the safety threshold.	The pressure is below the maximum safe level.
The stock price remained under $20 for most of the day.	The stock’s price stayed below $20 throughout the majority of the day.
The number of applicants was under expectations this year.	The total applicants were fewer than what was expected.
The rainfall was under the average for the month of July.	The amount of rain that fell was less than the usual average for July.
The calorie count in the meal is under 500.	The meal contains fewer than 500 calories.
The project was completed under the estimated timeframe.	The project was finished faster than initially estimated.
The population of the town is under 10,000 residents.	The town has fewer than 10,000 people living there.
The level of pollution is under the permissible limit.	The pollution is below the allowed level.
The inventory is under the maximum capacity of the warehouse.	The amount of stock is less than the warehouse can hold.
The risk of infection is under a manageable level.	The chance of getting infected is low enough to handle.
The number of errors was under the acceptable threshold.	The amount of mistakes was low enough to be tolerated.
The number of participants was under 100.	There were fewer than 100 people participating.
The download size is under 10 megabytes.	The file is smaller than 10 MB.
The interest rate is under 5 percent.	The interest rate is less than 5%.
The amount of sugar in the drink is under the recommended daily intake.	The drink contains less sugar than the recommended amount for daily consumption.
The file size must be under 2 MB to upload.	The file cannot exceed 2 megabytes to be uploaded.

Usage Rules for “Under”

Using “under” correctly involves understanding its various contexts and applying the appropriate meaning. Here are some key rules to follow:

• Spatial Relationships: Use “under” to indicate a position directly below something. Example: The ball is under the chair.
• Conditions and States: Use “under” to describe a situation or circumstance. Example: The city is under lockdown.
• Processes and Actions: Use “under” to show that something is being acted upon or developed. Example: The project is under construction.
• Influence and Control: Use “under” to denote being subject to authority or impact. Example: The employees are under the supervisor’s guidance.
• Quantity or Amount: Use “under” to indicate being less than a specified value. Example: The cost is under $50.

It is also important to distinguish “under” from similar prepositions such as “below” and “beneath.” While they can often be used interchangeably, “under” generally implies a more direct vertical relationship, whereas “below” can indicate a lower position without being directly underneath. “Beneath” is often considered more formal than “under.”

For example:

• Under: The cat is under the table. (Directly beneath)
• Below: The temperature is below freezing. (Lower than)
• Beneath: The truth lies beneath the surface. (Formal, less common)

Understanding these subtle differences will help you use “under” and its related prepositions more accurately.

Common Mistakes with “Under”

Even experienced English speakers sometimes make mistakes with the preposition “under.” Here are some common errors and how to correct them:

Incorrect	Correct	Explanation
The cat is sleep below the table.	The cat is sleeping under the table.	“Under” is used to indicate the cat’s position directly beneath the table.
The project is under reviewed.	The project is under review.	The correct phrase is “under review,” indicating that the project is being examined.
Under the influence for the manager.	Under the influence of the manager.	The correct phrasing is “under the influence of,” indicating control or guidance.
The price is less under $50.	The price is under $50.	“Under” correctly indicates that the price is less than $50. “Less” is redundant here.
The city is in curfew.	The city is under curfew.	The correct phrase is “under curfew,” indicating that a curfew is in effect.
The water is below pressure.	The water is under pressure.	“Under pressure” means the water is experiencing force, whereas “below pressure” doesn’t make sense in this context.
The document is below consideration.	The document is under consideration.	The correct idiom is “under consideration” to indicate that something is being evaluated.

Avoiding these common mistakes will improve the clarity and accuracy of your English.

Practice Exercises

Test your understanding of “under” with these practice exercises. Fill in the blanks with the appropriate use of “under.”

Exercise 1: Spatial Relationships

Question	Answer
1. The dog is lying _______ the tree.	under
2. The keys are _______ the rug.	under
3. The tunnel goes _______ the river.	under
4. The cat hid _______ the bed.	under
5. The treasure was buried _______ the sand.	under
6. The stream flows _______ the bridge.	under
7. The spider spun its web _______ the eaves.	under
8. The hikers rested _______ the shade of the tree.	under
9. The submarine traveled _______ the ice.	under
10. The secret message was hidden _______ the floorboards.	under

Exercise 2: Conditions and States

Question	Answer
1. The company is operating _______ new management.	under
2. The country is living _______ a dictatorship.	under
3. The project is proceeding _______ strict guidelines.	under
4. The athletes are training _______ intense pressure.	under
5. The city is _______ a state of emergency.	under
6. The contract was signed _______ duress.	under
7. The evidence is _______ review by the court.	under
8. The economy is performing _______ expectations.	under
9. The workers are employed _______ a temporary contract.	under
10. The bridge is _______ repair.	under

Exercise 3: Processes and Actions

Question	Answer
1. The bridge is _______ construction.	under
2. The matter is _______ discussion.	under
3. The proposal is _______ consideration.	under
4. The house is _______ renovation.	under
5. The investigation is _______ way.	under
6. The contract is _______ negotiation.	under
7. The new policy is _______ development.	under
8. The application is _______ review.	under
9. The city is _______ siege.	under
10. The evidence is _______ examination.	under

Exercise 4: Influence and Control

Question	Answer
1. The country is _______ military rule.	under
2. The employees are _______ the manager’s supervision.	under
3. The decision is _______ consideration by the committee.	under
4. The project is _______ the guidance of the director.	under
5. The students are _______ the teacher’s instruction.	under
6. The policy is _______ review by the board.	under
7. The team is working _______ pressure to meet the deadline.	under
8. The business is operating _______ strict regulations.	under
9. The experiment was conducted _______ controlled conditions.	under
10. The suspect is being held _______ suspicion of fraud.	under

Exercise 5: Quantity or Amount

Question	Answer
1. The cost was _______ $100.	under
2. Children _______ 12 get a discount.	under
3. The temperature is _______ freezing.	under
4. The weight is _______ 5 kilograms.	under
5. The speed limit is _______ 60 mph.	under
6. The attendance was _______ 50 people.	under
7. The project finished _______ budget.	under
8. The debt is _______ control.	under
9. The age requirement is _______ 30 years old.	under
10. The pressure is _______ the safety threshold.	under

Advanced Topics

For advanced learners, understanding the nuances of “under” in complex sentences and idiomatic expressions is crucial. Here are some advanced topics to explore:

• Subjunctive Mood: In formal contexts, “under” can be used with the subjunctive mood to express hypothetical conditions. Example: “Were the circumstances under which the contract was signed to change…”
• Idiomatic Expressions: English includes numerous idiomatic expressions using “under,” such as “under the weather” (feeling unwell), “under oath” (sworn to tell the truth), and “under wraps” (kept secret).
• Figurative Language: “Under” can be used in metaphors and similes to create vivid imagery. Example: “The city was groaning under the weight of its problems.”

Further study of these advanced topics will enhance your proficiency and allow you to use “under” with greater sophistication.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

The preposition “under” is a versatile and essential part of the English language. From describing spatial relationships to indicating conditions, influence, and quantity, “under” plays a crucial role in effective communication.

By understanding its definition, structural usage, and various categories, you can enhance your mastery of English grammar. Regular practice and attention to common mistakes will further refine your skills.

Embrace the nuances of “under” and elevate your language proficiency.