Difference Between Beneath & Under

Beneath vs Under

The difference between beneath and under is subtle. Beneath and under are two terms that can sometimes be used interchangeably because of their similar meanings. However, in certain contexts, using beneath and under interchangeably can seem a little out of place.

What does Beneath mean? What does Under mean?

Beneath and under are both terms that can be used to indicate a position. They both indicate a position that is lower. For example,

The cabinet was beneath the staircase.
The cabinet was under the staircase.

They both can be used to indicate the state of being buried or concealed by something. For example,

My sister was hidden beneath several layers of blankets.
My sister was hidden under several layers of blankets.

What is the difference between Beneath and Under?

Although almost functioning as synonyms for one another, beneath and under have minute differences between one another and, therefore, cannot be used interchangeably.

• Beneath can be used as an adverb and a preposition. Under is a preposition.
• Beneath is a more formal word. Under is more of a casual term and is, therefore, the more popular choice.
• Beneath and under can also be used to indicate below an expected quality or amount. However, using them interchangeably would seem odd.

It was beneath me to marry him.
She was under 21 and, therefore, could not enter the pub.

• Beneath is a term that can be exclusively used to indicate a position. Under can be used in a variety of ways to indicate many things. For example, going under, underage, underpaid, etc.

Key Takeaways

• Both beneath and under can indicate a lower position or being concealed by something, but they have subtle differences.
• Beneath can be used as an adverb and a preposition, while under is a preposition; beneath is more formal than under.
• Under can be used in various ways to indicate different things, while beneath is exclusively used to indicate a position.