Elementary: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when you refer to something simple and easy to understand, often used in the context of education or skills.

• She explained the problem in elementary terms so everyone could understand.
• The course covers the elementary principles of chemistry.

Use this word to indicate something that is the most important or the first in a sequence.

• Her primary responsibility at the company is project management.
• The primary goal of this initiative is to improve community health.

This word is used for describing something essential or necessary, often the simplest or least complex version of something.

• He needs to learn basic HTML before he can build a website.
• We need basic supplies like food and water.

This term is best used for describing something that is foundational or essential to a system, theory, or concept.

• Freedom of speech is a fundamental human right.
• Understanding these equations is fundamental to mastering physics.

Used to describe something that is very simple or fundamental, often in the context of education or understanding basic concepts.

• She needs to improve her elementary math skills
• The explanation was so elementary that a child could understand it

Refers to the essential, fundamental parts of something, especially when discussing simple, foundational elements.

• Everyone should know some basic first aid
• The recipe is quite basic, just follow the steps

Indicates something that is easy to understand or do, often without any complexity or difficulty.

• It's a simple task, just follow the instructions
• The design is simple yet elegant

Describes something that is easy to understand or do because it is clear and uncomplicated.

• Her instructions were straightforward and easy to follow
• The solution to the problem is straightforward