Definition:
as a preposition, 'below' indicates the position of something in relation to something else, suggesting that it is at a lower level or layer.
Rules:
'below' is used to describe the relative position of one thing to another, often indicating that something is underneath or at a lower level than something else.
Examples:
The fish swim below the surface of the water.
Temperatures will drop to 5 degrees below zero tonight.
The appendix can be found below the main text of the book.
Tips:
'Below' and 'under' can often be used interchangeably, but 'below' is more likely to be used when referring to levels on a scale, temperatures, or abstract concepts, while 'under' often refers to a physical position directly beneath something. Avoid redundancy. For instance, 'below down' is incorrect; just use 'below.' 'Below' can also be used in more abstract contexts, such as 'below average' or 'below par,' indicating something is less than a standard or expected level.
Definition:
as an adverb, 'below' describes where something is or where it moves to, especially in a downward direction.
Rules:
'below' can be used to indicate a position or direction that is lower than a particular point.
Examples:
The cat crawled below to hide from the dog.
The temperature went ten degrees below.
The village is situated where the mountains slope below.