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Foundational: meaning, definitions and examples

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foundational

 

[faสŠnหˆdeษชสƒ(ษ™)nษ™l ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

education

relating to the basis or foundation of something; forming a base for further development

Synonyms

basic, essential, fundamental.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
foundational

This word is listed twice. Please use the above definition.
basic

Use when referring to the simplest, most essential elements or beginner level of something; often used to describe something fundamental yet not complex.

  • Before proceeding to advanced yoga, you need to master the basic poses
fundamental

Use when discussing the core, most crucial aspects of something, often in a more formal or academic context. Similar to 'foundational' but can imply a more profound depth or broader implications.

  • The right to freedom of speech is a fundamental human right
essential

Use when referring to something absolutely necessary or extremely important for the functioning or success of something.

  • Water is essential for all forms of life on Earth

Examples of usage

  • A strong understanding of mathematics is foundational for a career in engineering.
  • The foundational principles of democracy are essential for a functioning society.
Context #2 | Noun

philosophy

a fundamental principle or basis for something

Synonyms

basis, groundwork, principle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
foundational

This term is best used when talking about something essential and core to a system, belief, or theory. It implies that without this element, the entire structure or concept would not stand.

  • The foundational principles of democracy include freedom and equality.
  • Understanding the foundational concepts of mathematics is crucial for advanced studies.
basis

Use this word when referring to the underlying support or foundation for an idea, argument, or process. It often denotes a systematic or structural underpinning.

  • The basis of her argument was well-researched data.
  • Trust is the basis of a strong relationship.
principle

Use this word when referring to a fundamental truth or proposition that serves as the foundation for a system of beliefs or behaviors. It is often associated with moral or ethical standards.

  • Honesty is a core principle of our organization.
  • The principle of fairness is essential in any legal system.
groundwork

This word is appropriate when discussing the initial work or planning that is laid down to create the basis for further development. It often suggests preparation and initial efforts.

  • He did the groundwork for the new project before the team started.
  • The groundwork for the building's foundation was completed last week.

Examples of usage

  • The concept of equality is a foundational belief in many ethical theories.
  • These documents serve as the foundational texts for our understanding of ancient history.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'fundamentalis', which means 'pertaining to a foundation'.
  • In Middle English, the term evolved to describe essential principles or supports for ideas and beliefs.
  • Its use expanded in the 16th century, following the rise of academic and philosophical discussions around core concepts.

Education

  • In education, foundational knowledge refers to the basic information needed to understand more complex subjects.
  • Schools often teach foundational skills in reading, writing, and math as the first step to further learning.
  • Constructivist theories suggest students build understanding upon a foundation of prior knowledge they already possess.

Philosophy

  • Foundationalism is a theory in philosophy that posits certain beliefs as basic, providing the structure for other beliefs.
  • Renowned philosophers like Descartes explored foundational concepts, searching for indubitable truths.
  • This idea is pivotal in discussions about knowledge, truth, and the limits of understanding.

Architecture

  • In architecture, a strong foundational design is crucial for ensuring a building's stability and safety against natural forces.
  • Foundational types vary, including slab, pier, or basement, depending on geological and climate factors.
  • Modern engineering principles emphasize the importance of adapting foundation types to specific environmental conditions.

Psychology

  • The concept of foundational beliefs plays a role in cognitive behavioral therapy, where deeply held beliefs impact behavior and emotion.
  • Early childhood experiences often shape foundational attitudes towards trust, relationships, and self-esteem.
  • Stability in foundational psychological frameworks enables individuals to address and overcome personal challenges.

Translations

Translations of the word "foundational" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น fundamental

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคฎเฅŒเคฒเคฟเค•

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช grundlegend

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ mendasar

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ะพัะฝะพะฒะพะฟะพะปะพะถะฝะธะน

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ fundamentalny

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ๅŸบ็คŽ็š„ใช

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท fondamental

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ fundamental

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท temel

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ๊ธฐ์ดˆ์ ์ธ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ุฃุณุงุณูŠ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ zรกkladnรญ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ zรกkladnรฝ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ๅŸบ็ก€็š„

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ temeljen

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ grundvallar

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ะฝะตะณั–ะทะณั–

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒกแƒแƒ‘แƒแƒ–แƒ˜แƒกแƒ

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ษ™sas

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ fundamental

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,203, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.