under · prep
under (IN A PARTICULAR STATE)
B2 in a particular state or condition
Dictionary examples:
The President is under pressure to resign. (36.3)
Under no circumstances should the festival become too specialized. (59.5)
under attack/control/investigation, etc.
B2 being affected by something at this time
Dictionary examples:
Several different plans are under discussion. (22.2)
We are working hard to get the situation under control. (29.6)
A new 40-story building is under construction. (30.9)
The base is once again under attack. (39.3)
The cause of the fire is still under investigation. (40.7)
be under the impression
B2 to think or understand a particular stated thing
Dictionary examples:
I was under the impression (that) you didn't get along very well. (33.6)
He was under the mistaken impression (that) you were married. (52.8)
under your breath
C2 If you say something under your breath, you say it very quietly so that other people cannot clearly hear it.
Dictionary examples:
"It's time to go," she muttered under her breath. (37.3)
under your nose
C2 If something bad happens under your nose, it happens close to you but you do not notice it.
Dictionary examples:
They were stealing money from under my nose. (26.3)
under (LOWER POSITION)
A1 below something, or below the surface of something
Dictionary examples:
The cat sleeps under the pizza box. (0.0)
My keys are under the cat. (0.0)
My socks are under the dog. (0.0)
They were standing under a tree. (10.7)
She pushed her bag under the table. (14.9)
He could only keep his head under the water for a few seconds. (20.2)
She was holding a file under her arm. (25.5)
He hid under the bed. (26.6)
under (LESS THAN)
A2 less than a number, amount, or age
Dictionary examples:
The price is under $10. My wallet isn't crying today! (0.0)
My pocket money is under $5. I'm too poor for pizza! (0.0)
The test was under an hour. Time flies when you're confused! (0.0)
If you get under 50%, you've failed the exam. (22.4)
All items cost/are under a dollar. (25.5)
The discount applies only to children under (the age of) ten. (26.7)
Under-5s get in free. (45.3)
You can buy the whole set of DVDs for just under $50. (56.4)
be under way
C2 to be already happening
Dictionary examples:
Building work is already under way. (48.3)