Elementary Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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elementary
[หelษชหmษntษri ]
Definitions
school education
Relating to the first stage of education, typically for children aged 5 to 11.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| elementary |
Use this word when you refer to something simple and easy to understand, often used in the context of education or skills.
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| primary |
Use this word to indicate something that is the most important or the first in a sequence.
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| basic |
This word is used for describing something essential or necessary, often the simplest or least complex version of something.
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| fundamental |
This term is best used for describing something that is foundational or essential to a system, theory, or concept.
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Examples of usage
- It's important to establish a strong foundation in elementary education.
- In elementary school, students learn basic math and language skills.
simple
Simple or basic, not complicated or advanced.
Synonyms
basic, simple, straightforward.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| elementary |
Used to describe something that is very simple or fundamental, often in the context of education or understanding basic concepts.
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| basic |
Refers to the essential, fundamental parts of something, especially when discussing simple, foundational elements.
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| simple |
Indicates something that is easy to understand or do, often without any complexity or difficulty.
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| straightforward |
Describes something that is easy to understand or do because it is clear and uncomplicated.
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Examples of usage
- His explanation was so elementary that even a child could understand it.
- The concept is quite elementary and easy to grasp.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Education
- In the educational system, 'elementary school' refers to the first stage of formal education for young children.
- Curricula in elementary levels focus on foundational subjects like math, reading, and science, laying the groundwork for more advanced learning.
Science
- In chemistry, 'elementary' refers to basic substances that cannot be broken down into simpler substances, like hydrogen and oxygen.
- The concept of elementary particles are fundamental building blocks of matter in physics.
Cultural References
- In popular culture, 'Elementary' has been used as a title for adaptations of the Sherlock Holmes stories, emphasizing simplicity in uncovering complex mysteries.
- The phrase 'elementary, my dear Watson' indicates straightforward deductions made by Sherlock Holmes.
Psychology
- Understanding elementary concepts is crucial in cognitive development, as recognizing simple ideas helps children form more complex thoughts later.
- Research shows that simplifying information makes it easier for individuals to learn and retain knowledge.
Origin of 'elementary'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin word 'elementaris', meaning 'belonging to the elements'.
- In ancient times, 'elements' referred to earth, water, air, and fire, which were seen as the basic building blocks of everything.
The word 'elementary' comes from the Latin word 'elementarius', meaning 'pertaining to the elements'. It was first used in the 14th century to refer to the basic principles or rudiments of a subject. Over time, it evolved to also describe the first stage of education for young children.
See also: elemental, elementally, elements.