1 C1 idiomatic informal
To be ranked just below the main chart positions, especially in music, without quite reaching the top.
"The band's new single has been bubbling under the Top 40 for three weeks now."
bubble under
C1 neutral intransitive
To exist or develop just below the surface or threshold, not yet fully visible or successful but close to breaking through.
In plain English
To be almost there — nearly at the top or ready to come out, but not quite yet.
What does "bubble under" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic neutral
For an emotion, tension, or idea to exist just below the surface without fully emerging.
"There was a sense of frustration bubbling under the surface throughout the meeting."
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
For bubbles or liquid activity to occur beneath the surface without breaking through.
Actually means
To be almost there — nearly at the top or ready to come out, but not quite yet.
Usage tip
Often used in music industry jargon to describe a song or artist that is just below the top of the charts. Also used metaphorically for emotions or ideas about to surface. Primarily British English.
Words that pair with "bubble under"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
charts surface tension resentment idea feeling
How to conjugate "bubble under"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
bubble under
I/you/we/they
3rd person
bubbles under
he/she/it
Past simple
bubbled under
yesterday
Past participle
bubbled under
have + pp
-ing form
bubbling under
continuous
Hear "bubble under" in the wild
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Other ways to say "bubble under"
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be on the verge hover below lurk beneath simmer smolder
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