This is the 2236th most frequent Dutch word.
onderliggende
Underlying.
Here, 'onderliggende' is used as an adjective to describe 'oorzaak' (cause), meaning the fundamental or basic reason.
De onderliggende oorzaak van het probleem is complex.
The underlying cause of the problem is complex.
In this sentence, 'onderliggende' qualifies 'mechanismen' (mechanisms), implying the foundational or contributing systems or processes.
Hij onderzoekt de onderliggende mechanismen van het gedrag.
He is investigating the underlying mechanisms of the behavior.
In this example, 'onderliggende' modifies 'problemen' (problems), denoting the essential or latent issues to be addressed.