Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
underlying cause
noun
/ˈʌndərˌlaɪɪŋ kɔːz/
Definition
The fundamental reason or cause that provides a basis for a situation or problem.
Examples
- Research indicates that stress is an underlying cause of many health issues.
- The underlying cause of the conflict must be addressed to find a lasting solution.
Meaning
An underlying cause is a primary reason that leads to an effect or outcome, often not immediately visible but crucial for understanding the issue as a whole.
Synonyms
- root cause
- fundamental cause
- primary cause
