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Underpass - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

An underpass is a road or path that goes beneath another road, railway, or obstacle, allowing traffic to pass without crossing at the same level. It helps improve safety and flow.

underpass

/ˈʌndərˌpæs/ /ˈʌndəˌpɑːs/

Definition:

A tunnel or passage beneath a road or railway for pedestrians or vehicles.

Synonyms:

subway, tunnel, undercrossing, pedestrian underpass

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

overpass, bridge

Common Collocations:

pedestrian underpass, road underpass, dark underpass, busy underpass, narrow underpass

Derivatives:

underpasses, underpassed (rare)

Usage Tips:

Use "underpass" to describe a subterranean pathway for crossing beneath traffic or obstacles safely.

Common Phrases:

take the underpass, walk through the underpass, avoid the underpass at night

Etymology:

Derived from "under" + "pass," first recorded in the early 20th century for underground crossings.

Examples:

  • 1. The cyclists rode through the underpass to avoid traffic.
  • 2. She felt uneasy walking alone in the dimly lit underpass.
  • 3. The new underpass connects the two neighborhoods seamlessly.
  • 4. Construction workers are repairing cracks in the old underpass walls.

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