preposition / adverb

below

At a lower position, level, or amount.

The village lies below the road on the hillside.

Etymology

The combination locates something in a low position. From physical height, below extends readily to lower amounts, ranks, and other positions on an ordered scale.

More examples

  • Temperatures fall below freezing after sunset.
  • Please read the instructions below before opening the package.
  • Her score is below the class average.

Similar words

beneath
Often emphasizes a directly lower physical position.
under
Commonly suggests covering or a position directly underneath.