1 C1 idiomatic formal
to be taught or guided by a particular person, especially as a regular listener or student
"For years, they sat under one of the most respected Bible teachers in the city."
inseparable
sit under
C1 formal inseparable transitive
to receive teaching or guidance from a particular person, especially regularly
In plain English
to learn from someone who teaches you
What does "sit under" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
to sit physically beneath someone
Actually means
to learn from someone who teaches you
Usage tip
Often heard in religious contexts, especially about hearing a preacher or pastor regularly. Uncommon in everyday general English.
Words that pair with "sit under"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
pastor preacher teacher ministry teaching instruction
How to conjugate "sit under"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
sit under
I/you/we/they
3rd person
sits under
he/she/it
Past simple
sat under
yesterday
Past participle
sat under
have + pp
-ing form
sitting under
continuous
Hear "sit under" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "sit under" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "sit under"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
be taught by learn from receive instruction from study under
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