The phrase "what below" appears in writing and speech in a handful of predictable ways, each with distinct grammar and meaning. In general, it introduces a reference, a quote, a definition, or a hierarchical element that follows in the text. It can function as a question asking for identification, a noun clause referring to an unspecified thing, or part of a directive asking someone to report or transcribe something. Understanding these roles helps you use "what below" precisely and avoid common errors in formal and everyday contexts.
Core Meanings and Uses
At a high level, "what below" typically serves one of several purposes:
- As a question asking what something is, often pointing to text, data, or a passage that follows or is about to be shown.
- As a noun clause referring to an unspecified thing or matter, as in "I said what below," meaning the content that was just written or spoken.
- As part of a directive in transcription or reporting, telling a listener or assistant to note or repeat information, such as in legal or administrative contexts.
Grammatical Role
Grammatically, "what below" often functions as either an interrogative pronoun or a noun clause. When used as a question, what is the pronoun modified by below, which acts as an adverbial indicating location or order. When used as a clause, it can act as the subject or object of a verb, referring to an idea, statement, or set of data that follows in the text.
Everyday Examples
Consider these common, realistic examples to clarify how "what below" is used in context:
| Example Sentence | Meaning and Function | Context |
|---|---|---|
| What below explains the main rule. | "What below" refers to an explanation that follows. | Instructional text |
| Write down what below verbatim. | A directive to transcribe the following content. | Legal or administrative |
| I asked what below and they showed the chart. | Question about an item or passage to be presented. | General conversation |
| The figure shows the trend; what below outlines the exceptions. | Noun clause standing in for details that follow. | Analytical report |
| Review what below before the meeting. | Refers to attached material or next section. | Instructional email |
Common Mistakes and Pitfalls
Because "what below" is somewhat formal, it is often misused in casual writing or speech. Typical errors include using it when a simple pronoun would suffice, placing it awkwardly in the sentence, or treating it as a standalone question without clear reference. Avoid using "what below" when the referent is obvious or when a simpler phrase such as this, that, or the following is clearer. Also, ensure that the noun or clause being referenced actually appears soon after, so the phrase does not feel vague or dangling.
Contextual Variations by Field
Different fields adapt "what below" to their own conventions:
- In technical and scientific writing, it commonly points forward to a diagram, table, or dataset.
- In legal documents, it may appear in requests for transcription or annotation, such as noting testimony or clauses.
- In academic editing, it helps direct a reader to a specific part of a manuscript or supplement.
- In business communication, it can refer to an upcoming section of a report or presentation.
Practical Guidelines and Style Tips
To use "what below" effectively, follow a few practical rules. First, ensure the referent is explicit and appears immediately after the phrase. Second, reserve the phrase for situations where pointing forward is necessary, especially in longer documents. Third, in less formal contexts, prefer simpler alternatives like the following or a direct noun. Fourth, avoid ambiguity by naming the type of content, such as what below shows or what below lists. Fifth, place it near the reference or anchor it with a verb to maintain clarity.
Practical Alternatives and When to Use Them
Depending on tone and context, you can often replace "what below" with other constructions:
- The following: Best for formal, structured documents where you point to an immediate next element.
- The above: Use when referring back to content that has already been presented.
- This or that: Suitable in conversation or informal writing when the reference is clear and nearby.
- The next section or item: Helpful in long reports or presentations to maintain orientation.
When to Use and When to Avoid
Use "what below" when you need a slightly formal way to direct attention to content that follows, especially in technical, legal, or academic writing. Avoid it in casual speech or when the reference is obvious, as it can sound stilted or overly abstract. In everyday email or messaging, simpler alternatives typically improve clarity and readability.
Why Precision Matters
In clear communication, small wording choices affect how easily readers can follow your reasoning. Using "what below" correctly reduces ambiguity, aligns reader expectations, and supports efficient navigation through complex information. Pairing the phrase with concrete nouns and immediate context ensures your audience understands exactly what you are pointing to and why it matters.
Summary and Key Takeaways
"What below" is a directional phrase that introduces or refers to content that follows in a text. It functions as a question, a noun clause, or a directive, depending on context. Use it in formal or structured writing when clarity and precision are essential, and avoid it when simpler alternatives suffice. By anchoring the phrase to a clear referent and matching tone to audience, you can use "what below" effectively without sacrificing readability.