fundamental 1 of 2

adjective

ˌfən-də-ˈmen-tᵊl How to pronounce fundamental (audio)
Definition of fundamentalnext
as in basic
of or relating to the simplest facts or theories of a subject the purpose of the course is to furnish students with fundamental knowledge of human reproduction

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

fundamental

2 of 2

noun

1
as in axiom

Synonyms & Similar Words
2
as in essence

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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How is the word fundamental different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of fundamental are cardinal, essential, and vital. While all these words mean "so important as to be indispensable," fundamental applies to something that is a foundation without which an entire system or complex whole would collapse.

fundamental principles of algebra

When might cardinal be a better fit than fundamental?

The words cardinal and fundamental can be used in similar contexts, but cardinal suggests something on which an outcome turns or depends.

a cardinal rule in buying a home

When would essential be a good substitute for fundamental?

Although the words essential and fundamental have much in common, essential implies belonging to the very nature of a thing and therefore being incapable of removal without destroying the thing itself or its character.

conflict is essential in drama

When could vital be used to replace fundamental?

The words vital and fundamental are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, vital suggests something that is necessary to a thing's continued existence or operation.

cut off from vital supplies

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of fundamental
Adjective
Not abiding by the statute of limitations could also undermine a fundamental tenet of the criminal justice system, Clarke wrote. —Taylor Romine, CNN Money, 28 May 2025 This future will overcome not just human biology but a fundamental rift between science and faith. —John Kaag, The Atlantic, 28 May 2025
Noun
On Tuesday, Florida stuck to its fundamentals and turned in a dominant performance, even though Maurice pumped the breaks on just how well his team played despite the final score. —Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 21 May 2025 Amazon nailed the fundamentals, took a big swing, and crushed it. —Paul Du Quenoy, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for fundamental
Recent Examples of Synonyms for fundamental
  1. basic
  2. axiom
  3. essence
  4. rudimentary
  5. maxim
  6. problem
  7. elementary
  8. rule
Adjective
  • You will then be asked to provide basic personal information, like your name, age, current address, device location, etc.
    — Tyler Everett, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 May 2025
  • Essentially aiming to be distraction-free communication devices in the most basic sense, these generally have black-and-white matte e-ink screens, good battery life, the ability to call and text, and a couple of standard apps.
    — Scott Kramer, Forbes.com, 30 May 2025
Definition of basic
Noun
  • And so, with gold on a steep upward trajectory: The following chart reflects my thinking, based on these axioms: Tension is going to increase dramatically—even from current levels.
    — Clem Chambers, Forbes.com, 11 Apr. 2025
  • But the soul of the Scorpion was not easily vanquished, proving the axiom that driving a slow car fast is better than driving a fast car slow.
    — Robert Ross, Robb Report, 4 Apr. 2025
Definition of axiom
Noun
  • That really captured the essence of the dark ages and the medieval world.
    — Joshua Lamb, Forbes.com, 6 June 2025
  • Add these picks to your cart to capture Charlotte’s essence before the new season of And Just Like That… is through.
    — Clara McMahon, People.com, 3 June 2025
Definition of essence
Adjective
  • Although contemporary smart assistants such as Alexa or Google Assistant can manage rudimentary household commands—like turning on lights or checking the weather—agentic AI signifies a profound shift.
    — Sandeep Shivam, Forbes.com, 6 June 2025
  • These pioneers used rudimentary plows, but when steel plows became available farmers were able to plant and harvest much more food per acre to feed a growing population.
    — Mary Ann Grossmann, Twin Cities, 31 May 2025
Definition of rudimentary
Noun
  • This is the sort of thing that young people think will never happen to them, but remember the maxim: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
    — Marla Jo Fisher, Oc Register, 4 June 2025
  • That violates another maxim commonly taught in families, schools and religious venues everywhere: Those who can should help those in need.
    — Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 16 May 2025
Definition of maxim
Noun
  • Read more: Fishing Communities in the Philippines Are Fighting for their Future as Waters Rise The bigger problem is that human society—policymakers, companies, and financial institutions—simply hasn’t figured out how to value all that oceans do for us.
    — Justin Worland, Time, 5 June 2025
  • Justice Elena Kagan wrote the Court's decision, deftly explaining the difference between the problem and the law.
    — Nina Totenberg, NPR, 5 June 2025
Definition of problem
Adjective
  • The bill will prohibit cell-phone use throughout the school day in elementary and middle schools.
    — News Service Of Florida, Sun Sentinel, 30 May 2025
  • Thirty-two busloads of elementary students from Title 1 schools throughout San Diego County eagerly hopped off buses during the week of May 12-16 to enjoy an enriching, exciting, and totally fun Plant*Grow*Eat morning at the Del Mar Fairgrounds’ Infield Farm.
    — News Release, San Diego Union-Tribune, 25 May 2025
Definition of elementary
Noun
  • Though this deal brings some uniformity to the rules, states still have separate laws regarding how NIL can be doled out, which could lead to legal challenges.
    — Eddie Pells, Baltimore Sun, 7 June 2025
  • Supporters say the new rules are necessary to keep California on track for its climate goals.
    — Khaleda Rahman, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 June 2025
Definition of rule

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fundamental
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Cite this Entry

“Fundamental.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fundamental. Accessed 11 Jun. 2025.

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More from Merriam-Webster on fundamental

Nglish: Translation of fundamental for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about fundamental

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