Underpinning means the essential support that makes an idea strong and believable. Ethical considerations are the underpinning of our company's policies.
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Abstract Foundation
Underpinning can refer to abstract concepts such as values, principles, or theories. Democracy is the underpinning of our society's structure.
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Academic Usage
In academic contexts, underpinning often describes foundational research or theories. Quantum mechanics is the underpinning of modern physics theories.