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Wordabulary

underlying

Pronunciation
Adjective B2 Upper-intermediate

Quick answer

Existing beneath the surface or being the real cause of something, even if not immediately obvious.

"The doctor searched for an underlying cause of the symptoms."

Synonyms and antonyms

Synonyms

Test yourself

Which word fits the gap? "The doctor searched for an _____ cause of the symptoms."

Answer: underlying

In your own words, what does "underlying" mean?

Existing beneath the surface or being the real cause of something, even if not immediately obvious.

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