The word "beneath" has several meanings and uses, depending on the context:
1. Positionally Lower: It refers to something that is below another thing in position. For example, "The box is beneath the table."
2. Inferiority: It can imply a state of being lower in quality, importance, or status. For example, "She feels beneath him in terms of intelligence."
3. Unsuitable or Unfit: It can mean not good enough or suitable for someone or something. For example, "That dress is beneath her."
4. Inconspicuous or Hidden: It can describe something that is not easily seen or noticed. For example, "The jewels were hidden beneath the table."
5. Below the Threshold of Visibility or Perception: It can refer to something that is not visible or perceivable. For example, "The stars were too faint to be seen beneath the bright moonlight."
6. Underneath: Sometimes, it is used interchangeably with "underneath" to mean below the surface or beneath something. For example, "There is a trapdoor beneath the floor."
7. In a Less Serious or Less Desirable Situation: It can imply being in a worse situation than someone else. For example, "He's in a worse position than us, being beneath the poverty line."
Each of these meanings can change the entire meaning of a sentence in which "beneath" is used.