How to Memorize

underlying cause/reason/symptoms

Analysis

'Underlying' is an adjective used to describe something which is not immediately obvious or apparent "She had an underlying condition which had not been diagnosed." "The underlying reason for her behaviour was identified by the psychologist."Something underlying may also describe something upon which something else rests or depends. "The underlying structure fell apart when they were working on the top level." "The underlying support of her colleagues made the research much easier to complete." You will often hear the phrase 'the underlying cause' of something, meaning the ultimate reason for something.

Social Examples (Advance)

1. The underlying cause of the plane crash was a mechanical error.
2. The report stated that the underlying reason for the collapse of the business was poor management.
3. Once they identified the underlying symptoms, they could begin work on the main problem.

Professional Examples (Basic)

1. The report stated that the underlying reason for the collapse of the business was poor management.
2. The underlying cause for the drop in sales was traced back to a fall in overall spending.

Further Suggestions