Fundamental

/ˌfʌn.dəˈmɛn.təl/ · noun

Meaning

(generic, singular) A basic truth, elementary concept, principle, rule, or law. An individual fundamental will often serve as a building block used to form a complex idea..

Definitions by Sense

1. (generic, singular) A basic truth, elementary concept, principle, rule, or law. An individual fundamental will often serve as a building block used to form a complex idea.
2. (generic, plural) A collection of essential component ideas that are often grouped together to serve as the foundational basis of a complex idea.
3. (physics) The lowest frequency of a periodic waveform.
4. (music) The lowest partial of a complex tone.
5. Related to a foundation, base, or basis; serving as a foundation.
6. Essential; extremely important.

Example Sentences

one of the fundamentals of linear algebra

When any one offers me a compleat Catalogue of his Fundamentals, he does not unreaſonably demand me to quit mine for nothing[…]

Personal leadership is a fundamental of successful government.

a fundamental truth; a fundamental axiom; a fundamental element; fundamental principle; fundamental law

A need for belonging seems fundamental to humans.

Seeing the British establishment struggle with the financial sector is like watching an alcoholic […]. Until 2008 there was denial over what finance had become. […] But the scandals kept coming, […]. A broad section of the political class now recognises the need for change but remains unable to see the necessity of a fundamental overhaul. Instead it offers fixes and patches.

Synonyms for fundamental

Antonyms for fundamental

Related Words

Word Forms

• fundamentals
• more fundamental
• most fundamental

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

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