In German
unter
Meaning: under, below; among
Example sentences
DieKatzeläuftunterdenTisch.
The cat runs under the table.
DieKatzeliegtunterdemTisch.
The cat lies under the table.
UnterdemBettistStaub.
There's dust under the bed.
Grammar note
“Unter” is two-way: Akkusativ for movement to a position below something, Dativ for already being there. It can also mean “among”, as in “unter Freunden” (among friends).
Common mistake
Don't confuse “unter” (below, under) with “unten” (down below, an adverb with no case). “Unter dem Tisch” needs an article and case; “unten” stands alone.
Quick check
Which preposition means “under” or “below”?
More words on this topic
Keep learning German
Practise it in a lesson →Frequently asked questions
Can “unter” mean “among”?
Yes — “unter Freunden” means “among friends”.
What's the difference between “unter” and “unten”?
“Unter” is a preposition (needs a case and often an article); “unten” is an adverb meaning “down below”, used alone.