B2adjective 2K

Fundamental

🇬🇧 UK /["/ˌfʌndəˈmentl/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ˌfʌndəˈmentl/"]/

Meaning of Fundamental

serious and very important; affecting the most central and important parts of something

In simple words: Basic or essential part of something

Fundamental in a sentence

• Understanding basic math concepts is fundamental to succeeding in higher-level mathematics.
• The fundamental principles of democracy include equality and freedom.
• It's fundamental that we address climate change now before it becomes irreversible.
• The fundamental nature of the problem lies in the lack of communication.
• Every culture has fundamental beliefs that shape its identity.

How to use Fundamental

Use in contexts where you're discussing core concepts or basics. It's suitable for both written and spoken language, but may seem overly formal in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'fun-da-mental' as the fun, essential parts of learning.

Related words

Collocations with Fundamental

• be
• seem
• remain
• really
• truly
• very
• to
• for
• be
• seem
• remain
• really
• truly
• very
• to
• for

Synonyms for Fundamental

• basic
• essential

Opposites of Fundamental

• superficial
• secondary
• minor

Common mistakes with Fundamental

• Confused with 'foundational' — these can be similar but are used differently.
• Using 'fundamental' as a noun, which is incorrect as it is primarily an adjective.
• Overusing it in informal contexts, where simpler words like 'basic' might fit better.

Frequently asked questions about Fundamental

What does Fundamental mean?

Basic or essential part of something

What is the definition of Fundamental?

serious and very important; affecting the most central and important parts of something

How do you use Fundamental in a sentence?

Understanding basic math concepts is fundamental to succeeding in higher-level mathematics.

Can you give another example of Fundamental?

The fundamental principles of democracy include equality and freedom.

What are synonyms for Fundamental?

Common alternatives include basic, essential.

What is the opposite of Fundamental?

Opposite meanings include superficial, secondary, minor.

What words go with Fundamental?

It commonly pairs with be, seem, remain, really, truly, very, to, for, be, seem, remain, really, truly, very, to, for.

What are common mistakes when using Fundamental?

Confused with 'foundational' — these can be similar but are used differently. Using 'fundamental' as a noun, which is incorrect as it is primarily an adjective. Overusing it in informal contexts, where simpler words like 'basic' might fit better.

How do you pronounce Fundamental?

US: /["/ˌfʌndəˈmentl/"]/, UK: /["/ˌfʌndəˈmentl/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Fundamental?

Use in contexts where you're discussing core concepts or basics. It's suitable for both written and spoken language, but may seem overly formal in casual conversations.

What CEFR level is Fundamental?

"Fundamental" is at B2 level on the CEFR scale.