1A lower layer; the layer beneath in a stratified structure or arrangement.
地質調査で地下の下層から古い化石が見つかった。
Ancient fossils were found in the lower strata during the geological survey.
建物の断面図で下層は地下部分を示している。
In the building cross-section, the lower layer indicates the underground part.
2Lower social strata or classes within a society or organization; often refers to people of lower economic or social standing.
経済格差が拡大すると下層の生活はますます厳しくなる。
When economic disparities widen, life for the lower strata becomes increasingly difficult.
調査は都市の下層に住む住民の意見を集めた。
The survey collected opinions from residents living in the lower parts of the city.