
Underlie
Cause and Effect
Use 'underlie' to connect a basic cause with its complex effect.

The desire for freedom underlies many historical revolutions.
Abstract Foundations
'Underlie' often refers to abstract foundations, like principles or concepts.

Ethical considerations underlie the new policy.
Implicit Presence
What 'underlies' is not always immediately visible but is present throughout.

Careful planning underlies the event's success.
Compare with
ButtressEstablishFoundGroundProveSupportSustainUnderpin
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