BELOW Meaning and
Definition
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Below is an adverb or preposition that indicates a position or location that is lower or under something. It refers to a placement or degree that is lesser, lower, or beneath another point, either physically or metaphorically. In terms of physical positioning, it indicates an object or area situated at a lower level or underneath another object. For instance, when describing a mountain range, a particular peak may be referred to as below another peak if it is at a lower altitude or located at a lower position along the mountainside.
In a broader sense, "below" can also denote a lower rank, status, or level in a hierarchy or scale. It implies a position or condition that is less significant, inferior, or of lesser importance compared to others. For example, in an organizational structure, an employee may hold a position below their supervisor, indicating that they report to a higher-ranking individual.
Additionally, "below" can be used to describe a comparison or contrast in value, quality, or amount. It signifies a lesser extent or degree in relation to something else. For example, in a temperature context, if thermometer readings are given for both locations, one may be classified as below freezing if it indicates a temperature lower than the freezing point of water, which is 0 degrees Celsius or 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
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Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for BELOW *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for BELOW
Etymology of BELOW
The word "below" has its origins in Old English, where it was spelled "bilōwan" or "be- + lōwan". The prefix "be-" means "by" or "near", while "lōwan" means "to lie". Over time, these words evolved to become "below" in Middle English, with a similar meaning of "lower in position or rank".
Idioms with the word BELOW
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below the belt
The idiom "below the belt" refers to an unfair or unethical action or comment that goes beyond acceptable limits or socially accepted standards. It often implies that someone is being overly harsh or attacking someone in a personal or low blow manner.
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below/under par
The idiom "below/under par" typically refers to a performance that falls below the expected or desired standard. It originates from golf, where "par" represents the predetermined number of strokes a skilled golfer should require to complete a hole or course. Therefore, being "below/under par" suggests being less competent, proficient, or effective in comparison to what is considered normal or satisfactory.
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sink below sth
The idiom "sink below something" typically means to fall to a lower or inferior level, standard, or quality compared to something else. It implies a decline or deterioration in a particular aspect, often associated with a loss of prestige, value, or effectiveness.
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take sm below
The idiom "take someone below" typically means to subdue or defeat someone. It implies exerting control or surpassing someone in a confrontational situation.
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send sm below
The idiom "send someone below" typically refers to an action or event causing someone to die or be killed. It implies sending someone to the afterlife or the "underworld." This idiom is often associated with death or extreme danger.
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rate (sm or sth) below (sm or sth else)
The idiom "rate (someone or something) below (someone or something else)" means to consider or evaluate someone or something as of lesser importance, value, or quality compared to someone or something else. It suggests that the subject is perceived or ranked as inferior or less significant when compared to another subject.
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go below
The idiom "go below" typically refers to a naval or nautical term for descending into a lower part or compartment of a ship or boat. It can also figuratively mean retreating or withdrawing from a situation or confrontation.
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drop below sm or sth
The idiom "drop below sm or sth" refers to the act of falling or declining to a lower level, quality, or standard than what was previously achieved or expected. It implies a decrease in performance, value, or accomplishment.
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below par
The idiom "below par" is typically used to describe something or someone as being below average, below normal standards, or not up to the expected level of quality or performance. It originated from golf terminology, where "par" refers to the number of strokes expected to complete a hole or round. If a golfer's score is below par, it means they did worse than the expected number. In broader contexts, "below par" can be used to convey a sense of disappointment, mediocrity, or inadequacy.
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drop below
The idiom "drop below" means to fall or decline to a lower level, status, or quality. It can refer to various situations where something or someone experiences a decrease or deterioration in performance, value, or position.
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below stairs
The idiom "below stairs" refers to the area of a large house or estate where the servants or employees live and work. It is often used metaphorically to describe someone who is of a lower social class or position, or to refer to the working-class environment or lifestyle.
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below the salt
The idiom "below the salt" refers to someone who is of lower social status or considered less important than others. It originated from medieval dining etiquette, where a salt cellar was placed in the center of the table. Those seated closer to the host or above the salt were considered more important or higher in rank, while those seated below the salt were regarded as of lower importance or lower in social standing.
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below (one's) breath
The idiom "below (one's) breath" refers to speaking in a low volume or whispering so that others might not hear what is being said. It often implies that the person is expressing a comment or remark under their breath intentionally, typically out of frustration, anger, or displeasure.
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below the belt, hit
The idiom "below the belt, hit" refers to a personal attack or criticism that is considered unfair, unjust, or inappropriate. It implies crossing the boundaries of what is acceptable in a discussion or competition by targeting someone's vulnerable or sensitive areas.
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below/under the radar
The idiom "below/under the radar" refers to something or someone that is unnoticed or deliberately concealed from public attention or scrutiny. It suggests being discreet, operating quietly, or staying out of the spotlight.
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down below
The idiom "down below" is used to refer to a location that is situated beneath or at a lower level than the current position. It typically implies an area that is physically lower, such as a basement or lower floor, or a metaphorical sense of something being less important or of lower status.
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drop below (something)
The idiom "drop below (something)" means to fall or decrease to a level that is lower than a certain standard, expectation, or specified point.
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sink below
The idiom "sink below" typically means to deteriorate in terms of behavior, character, or moral standards. It suggests a decline in quality or the loss of one's previous respectable status.
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sit below the salt
The idiom "sit below the salt" refers to being in a lower or less prestigious position or rank within a social or professional setting. It originates from a medieval custom where a large salt cellar, symbolic of wealth and status, was placed in the middle of a banquet table. The most important guests would sit "above the salt" near the head of the table, while those of lesser importance would sit "below the salt" near the foot of the table. Therefore, to "sit below the salt" means to be of lower standing or importance.
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below (or under) par
The idiom "below (or under) par" refers to something or someone performing or functioning at a level that is below the expected or desired standard. It originates from golf, where "par" refers to the number of strokes a skilled player would typically require for a particular hole or course. Thus, being below par signifies being inadequate, substandard, or not up to scratch in a given situation.
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marry below oneself
The idiom "marry below oneself" refers to marrying someone who is considered to be of lower social status, intelligence, wealth, or any other perceived measure of value compared to oneself.
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fall below
The idiom "fall below" means to not meet or reach a certain standard or expectation. It refers to a situation where something or someone fails to achieve a desired level or quality.
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marry below (one's) station
The idiom "marry below (one's) station" refers to a situation where a person marries someone from a lower social, economic, or societal status than themselves. It implies that the person has chosen a partner who is considered to be of lesser position or prestige compared to their own.
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a cut below
The idiom "a cut below" typically refers to something or someone that is of a lower quality or standard compared to others. It implies that the thing or person being described falls short or lacks the desired level of excellence.
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hit sm below the belt
The idiom "hit someone below the belt" means to say or do something unfair or dishonest that is intended to harm or hurt someone emotionally or psychologically. It is often used to describe an action that is particularly cruel or takes advantage of someone's vulnerability. The phrase originates from boxing, where hitting an opponent below the belt is considered an illegal and unethical move.
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punch below (one's) weight
The idiom "punch below (one's) weight" means to perform or compete at a level that is below one's typical abilities or capabilities. It typically refers to situations where someone is not living up to their full potential or not utilizing their strengths effectively.
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be below par
The idiom "be below par" refers to performing or functioning at a lower or substandard level than expected or desired. It originates from the terminology used in golf, where "par" denotes the standard number of strokes a skilled golfer should require to complete a hole or course. Thus, being "below par" implies being below the expected or average level of performance or quality in any given situation.
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be below the belt
The idiom "be below the belt" means to behave unfairly or unkindly by attacking someone's weak or vulnerable spot. It refers to using tactics or making remarks that are considered inappropriate or unethical in order to gain an advantage or hurt someone emotionally or physically.
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hit below the belt
The idiom "hit below the belt" refers to delivering a comment, action, or attack that is unfair, unethical, or inconsiderate. It typically involves crossing the boundary of what is acceptable or tactful, often by targeting someone's vulnerable or sensitive areas.
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below/beneath the surface
The idiom "below/beneath the surface" refers to something that is hidden or not immediately apparent. It implies that there is a deeper or underlying meaning or truth that is not easily seen or understood on the surface level. It is often used to describe a situation, behavior, or appearance that may be misleading or deceptive.
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below the line
The idiom "below the line" refers to something that falls outside of the standard or expected scope, typically pertaining to expenses or activities that are not included in a budget or plan. It can also be used to describe tasks or responsibilities that are less visible or recognized compared to those that are considered top priorities.
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notch below
The idiom "notch below" refers to something that is slightly inferior or of lower quality compared to something else. It signifies a small difference in rank, level, or performance.
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below someone
"Below someone" is an idiom that means to be subordinate or of lesser rank or position compared to someone else. It implies that the other person holds a higher status, authority, or power.
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keep (one's) head below the parapet
The idiom "keep (one's) head below the parapet" means to avoid drawing attention to oneself or staying out of trouble by maintaining a low profile or not getting involved in controversial or risky situations. It often implies a cautious approach to avoid unnecessary conflict or unwanted consequences. The expression is derived from the military term "parapet," which refers to the protective wall or barrier on a fortress or trench, behind which soldiers can take cover while remaining concealed.
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below decks
The idiom "below decks" refers to the area or portion of a ship or boat that is located beneath the main deck, usually referring to the interior of the vessel where crew members or passengers reside or work. It can also be used metaphorically to describe something that is hidden, concealed, or beneath the surface.
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notch below (sm or sth)
The idiom "notch below (someone or something)" is used to describe someone or something that is slightly less or a bit lower in quality, skill, or importance compared to another person or thing. It implies a slight difference or a minor step down.
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a notch below sb/sth
The idiom "a notch below sb/sth" means slightly less advanced, skilled, or impressive than someone or something else. It is often used to compare the relative superiority or inferiority of two people or things.
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hit someone below the belt
"Hit someone below the belt" is an idiom that means to attack or hurt someone in a particularly unfair or cruel manner. It often refers to using means or tactics that are considered unethical, dishonorable, or beyond the boundaries of what is deemed acceptable. The phrase originates from the sport of boxing, where striking below the beltline is considered illegal and unsportsmanlike. Figuratively, it implies a personal attack that goes beyond the limits of fairness and decency.
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fall below sth
To "fall below something" means to not meet or reach a certain standard or expectation. It implies that the person, object, or situation is considered to be of lesser quality or below the desired level.
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below the breadline
The idiom "below the breadline" refers to a situation where someone's income or financial resources are so low that they struggle to afford even basic necessities, such as food and shelter; living in poverty.
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below/above stairs
The idiom "below/above stairs" refers to the division or distinction between the working class or servants (below stairs) and the upper class or masters (above stairs) in a household, particularly in the context of British culture during earlier times. It symbolizes the social hierarchy and class stratification within a household or society. The phrase can also be used metaphorically to describe the difference in social status or responsibilities between individuals or groups in any setting.
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below average
The idiom "below average" means to be less than the usual or expected level of quality or proficiency. It refers to something or someone that is not performing as well as the average or the norm and falls short in comparison.
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send below
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below sm
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hit below (one's) weight
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proud below the navel
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rate below
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rate below else Go to rate below
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take below
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be below/under par
The idiom "be below/under par" means to not meet the usual or expected standard of quality or performance; to be substandard or inadequate. It is often used in reference to someone's performance in a specific situation, such as in sports or work.
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above (or below) the salt
The idiom "above (or below) the salt" refers to the traditional seating arrangement at a dining table. In historical times, the most honored guests would be seated above a long salt cellar, while less prestigious guests would be seated below it. Today, the phrase is used to describe someone's social standing or importance, with those "above the salt" considered high-ranking or influential, and those "below the salt" considered of lesser significance.
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above/below the fold
The idiom "above/below the fold" refers to content on a webpage that is visible without scrolling (above the fold) or only visible after scrolling down (below the fold). It is often used in reference to the placement of important information or advertisements on a webpage.
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punch above/below your weight
The idiom "punch above/below your weight" means to achieve at a level higher or lower than what is expected or typical based on one's size, power, or resources. It is often used to describe someone or something exceeding or falling short of their perceived capabilities or limitations.
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be at/below full strength
The idiom "be at/below full strength" refers to not being operating or functioning at one's optimal level or capacity. It can refer to a person, team, organization, or anything else that is not performing at its best due to a lack of resources, energy, or capability.
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*below someone or something
To be "below someone or something" means to be of lesser importance, status, or rank than another person or thing. It can also refer to being situated at a lower physical position relative to something else.
Similar spelling words for BELOW
- bellow,
- belew,
- belli,
- Beal,
- BEIL,
- buelow,
- Beula,
- bewail,
- Blew,
- be well,
- Beale,
- bell,
- bellew,
- bellah,
- bel,
- belly,
- Beulah,
- blow,
- bello,
- Beall,
- Bella,
- bewley,
- Beyl,
- belleau,
- billow,
- belle.
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