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below
/bɪˈloʊ/
in or to a lower position
The temperature dropped below freezing last night.
The temperature went to a lower level than freezing.
general
in or to a lower position or place
The treasure is buried below the old oak tree.
The treasure is buried in a lower position under the old oak tree.
Can be used as a preposition or adverb.
general
inferior in rank, status, or quality
She was ranked below her peers in the competition.
She was considered inferior in rank compared to her peers.
Used to indicate a lower position in a hierarchy.
Collocations
Synonyms
Pro Tip
Preposition vs. Adverb
Use 'below' as a preposition when it introduces a noun phrase (e.g., 'below the surface'), and as an adverb when it modifies a verb (e.g., 'The temperature dropped below').
Word Origin
From Middle English *belo*, from Old English *belo*, from Proto-Germanic *balwaz, meaning 'low' or 'base'.
Usage Notes
Can be used as a preposition (e.g., 'The key is below the mat') or an adverb (e.g., 'The temperature dropped below freezing').
Word Breakdown
below
lower position
rootEnglish Dictionary