1 B2 idiomatic neutral
To be the underlying or hidden cause, reason, or motivation for something.
"Researchers are trying to understand what lies behind the rise in childhood obesity."
inseparable
lie behind
B2 neutral inseparable intransitive
To be the real, often hidden, reason or cause that explains something.
In plain English
The real reason why something happens, which may not be obvious at first.
What does "lie behind" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B1 neutral
To be physically located at the back of or behind something.
"A beautiful garden lies behind the old stone wall."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To be positioned at the back of or behind something.
Actually means
The real reason why something happens, which may not be obvious at first.
Usage tip
Very common in analytical writing, journalism, and academic contexts. Used to discuss underlying motivations, causes, or histories. The subject is usually abstract: 'What lies behind this decision?'
Words that pair with "lie behind"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
decision behaviour problem success conflict motivation
How to conjugate "lie behind"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
lie behind
I/you/we/they
3rd person
lies behind
he/she/it
Past simple
lay behind
yesterday
Past participle
lain behind
have + pp
-ing form
lying behind
continuous
Hear "lie behind" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "lie behind" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.