Fundamental
/ˌfʌndəˈmɛntəl/
Definitions
2 meaningsForming a necessary base or core; of central importance.
/ˌfʌndəˈmɛntəl/
Relating to or forming the basis of something; essential.
Learning the fundamental concepts of mathematics is essential for further study.
💡 Simply: Imagine a building. The foundation is *fundamental*; without it, the whole thing would collapse! It's the most important part.
👶 For kids: The most important part of something, like the bottom of your house that holds it up!
More Examples
Honesty is a fundamental value in building trust.
The fundamental rights of citizens are protected by the constitution.
How It's Used
"The fundamental principles of ethics are often debated."
"Understanding the fundamental laws of physics is key to scientific progress."
"A fundamental analysis of a company's financial statements helps determine its investment potential."
A central or primary rule or principle that serves as the foundation of a system or belief.
/ˌfʌndəˈmɛntəl/
A central or primary rule or principle on which something is based.
The fundamentals of good health include a balanced diet and regular exercise.
💡 Simply: The *fundamental* of a recipe is like the basic instructions, the things you absolutely need to follow to make it work – like flour and eggs in a cake.
👶 For kids: The most important rule or thing that everything else is built on.
More Examples
The company focuses on the financial fundamentals of its business.
Understanding the fundamentals of web design is crucial for building websites.
How It's Used
"They adhered to the fundamentals of their faith."
"The document outlined the fundamentals of the party's platform."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Antonyms
From Latin *fundamentum* meaning 'foundation' or 'base'. Related to the verb *fundare*, 'to found'. It entered English in the 15th century.
The word 'fundamental' has been used since the 15th century, often in theological contexts, referring to the essential tenets of faith. It later expanded to encompass broader applications related to foundational aspects.
Memory tip
Think of the foundation of a building – it's fundamental for its existence.
Word Origin
"foundation, basis"