Synonyms of fundamental

fundamental 1 of 2

adjective

ˌfən-də-ˈmen-tᵊl 

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

• basic
• rudimentary
• elementary
• introductory
• underlying
• essential
• elemental
• basal
• beginning
• simple
• rudimental
• meat-and-potatoes
• preliminary
• primary
• abecedarian
• primal
• prime
• crucial
• important
• primordial
• key
• primeval
• primitive
• uncomplicated
• preparatory
• crude
• rude

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• advanced
• complex
• sophisticated
• extensive
• detailed
• complicated
• higher
• intricate
• elaborate
• high
• evolved
• developed
• convoluted
• refined

fundamental

2 of 2

noun

1

as in axiom

Related Words

• axiom
• maxim
• rule
• precept
• regulation
• principle
• code
• law
• statute
• constitution
• value
• act
• directory
• ground rule
• ordinance
• instruction
• direction
• commandment
• reg
• decree
• bylaw
• directive
• decalogue
• restriction
• fiat
• moral
• order
• practice
• command
• tradition
• prohibition
• edict
• dictate
• manners
• formula
• standard
• interdiction
• guide
• guideline
• blueprint
• custom
• ban
• mores
• charge
• behest
• habit
• convention
• practise
• proscription
• way
• canon

2

as in essence

Related Words

• essence
• problem
• core
• main
• issue
• consideration
• basis
• substance
• crux
• essential
• sum
• heart
• burden
• gist
• nucleus
• staple
• body
• bulk
• purpose
• pivot
• generality
• kernel
• mass
• net
• idea
• marrow
• purport
• centerpiece
• nub
• pith
• quick
• keynote
• count
• grist
• nubbin
• point
• essentiality
• argument
• debate
• subject matter
• question
• bottom
• matter
• subject
• topic
• motive
• content
• theme
• affair
• talking point
• motif

Dissimilar Words

• aside
• tangent
• digression
• excursion
• parenthesis
• interjection

Synonym Chooser

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

Recent Examples of fundamental

Adjective

The Yankees have had two separate six-game losing streaks, with bad fundamentals in all facets showing up during those spans. —Scott Thompson, FOXNews.com, 19 Aug. 2025

Second, absent training in AI fundamentals and advanced analytical reasoning, many users tend to use models as a substitute for critical thinking. —Benjamin Jensen, The Conversation, 18 Aug. 2025

Noun

The story supposedly centers on Jones and St. Brown’s rivalry from their high school days growing up in California, and Jones’ desire to work on some fundamental changes the Dolphins are hoping the 27-year-old can make to his game. —Miami Herald, 21 Aug. 2025

That starts with giving educators the same fundamental labor rights that private-sector workers enjoy, including the right to strike. —Tim Wright, Baltimore Sun, 20 Aug. 2025