fundamental 1 of 2

fundamental

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noun

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

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
The only fundamental differences in the 2025 model are the stronger hinge and improved dust resistance. Iyaz Akhtar, PC Magazine, 24 Apr. 2025 President Donald Trump is expected to sign an executive order Wednesday that aims to alter how colleges and universities are accredited, reshaping a fundamental aspect of American higher education. Thomas G. Moukawsher, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 Apr. 2025
Noun
Being able to bring that into, onto a stage, that’s sort of our fundamental. Dave Quinn, People.com, 14 Apr. 2025 Instead, try the Complete 2025 Cybersecurity Developer and IT Super Skills Bundle for a comprehensive breakdown of cybersecurity fundamentals. Stackcommerce Team (sponsored), PC Magazine, 10 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for fundamental
Recent Examples of Synonyms for fundamental
Adjective
  • The new requirement goes into effect nationwide on that date, making a basic driver's license a relic at airports set up for Real IDs.
    Emily Forlini, PC Magazine, 24 Apr. 2025
  • But basic economic theories don’t tell the whole story, Indarte added.
    Jessica Dickler, CNBC, 24 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • It’s become a political axiom of sorts that policies championed largely by Democratic city leaders over the past half decade have resulted in rising crime levels.
    Christopher S. Warshaw, The Conversation, 18 Apr. 2025
  • Donald Trump and his gleeful chainsaw-wielding quasi-cabinet department leader Elon Musk should be made aware that the same axiom applies to geopolitics.
    Letters to the editor, The Orlando Sentinel, 2 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • In essence, sunlight collected with Psyche's large solar arrays gets converted into electricity, which then powers up the spacecraft's four thrusters.
    Monisha Ravisetti, Space.com, 1 May 2025
  • In essence, different threads coming together to create something meaningful and strong.
    Kissa Castaneda, Forbes.com, 1 May 2025
Adjective
  • Instead of making something miraculous out of rudimentary materials, Government Cheese has a pantry of fine ingredients but never puts together anything palatable.
    Daniel Fienberg, HollywoodReporter, 15 Apr. 2025
  • This enables the system to plan novel action sequences to achieve specified goals—a rudimentary form of reasoning and planning.
    Jason D. Greenblatt, MSNBC Newsweek, 2 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Is there one particular maxim or comment that’s your favorite?
    Mark Holgate, Vogue, 15 Apr. 2025
  • Senior leaders can keep certain maxims in mind to shape a constructive message that’s both insightful and impactful.
    Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 3 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Are some flights more likely to experience crew duty clock problems?
    Zach Wichter, USA Today, 1 May 2025
  • The activities are sorted into six categories, all designed to teach different social skills, including teamwork, empathy, trust, communication, problem solving, and listening.
    Anja Webb, Parents, 30 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • That really elementary approach to writing is one of my favorite things.
    Kyle Denis, Billboard, 23 Apr. 2025
  • There are no plans to increase the student-teacher ratio at elementary and intermediate schools.
    Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 16 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • In the 13th century, the papacy was vacant for almost three years before the election of Gregory X, who tightened up conclave rules.
    John Bacon, USA Today, 2 May 2025
  • The author of that rule change, Garth Glissman, is an SEC associate commissioner and driving force behind the effort to pass a similar rule for men’s college hoops.
    Joe Rexrode, New York Times, 1 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Fundamental.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fundamental. Accessed 4 May. 2025.

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