Basic
/ˈbeɪsɪk/
Definitions
2 meaningsServing as an essential component; forming a base or foundation.
/ˈbeɪsɪk/
Fundamental or essential
The instructions were basic and easy to follow.
💡 Simply: Simple and essential.
More Examples
She has a basic understanding of the subject.
How It's Used
"He's taking a basic math course."
"The program has a basic user interface."
The fundamental principles or elements of something.
/ˈbeɪsɪk/
The foundation or essentials
He grasped the basics of Spanish quickly.
💡 Simply: The most important parts.
More Examples
Let's review the basics before we proceed.
How It's Used
"They learned the basics of programming in their first year."
Idioms & expressions
back to basics
Returning to the fundamental principles or methods.
"After years of using advanced techniques, they decided to go back to basics."
From Old French *basik, from Latin *basicus, from basis "base, foundation".
The word's usage has remained consistent, referring to foundational aspects.
Memory tip
Think of the 'base' of a building – it's fundamental.