Fundamental: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• This word comes from the Latin 'fundamentalis', which is rooted in 'fundamentum', meaning 'foundation'.
• The prefix 'fund-' relates to 'fundere', meaning 'to pour', indicating something that is laid down as a basis.

Education

• In education, mastering fundamental skills in subjects like math and reading is crucial for academic success.
• Teachers often emphasize the fundamentals to ensure students can tackle more complicated topics in the future.

Science

• In physics, fundamental forces are the basic interactions that govern how matter behaves, such as gravity and electromagnetism.
• The periodic table is built on fundamental elements, serving as the basic building blocks of matter.

Philosophy

• In philosophical discussions, fundamentals refer to the core principles that shape a belief system or worldview.
• Great thinkers like Aristotle have focused on fundamental questions regarding existence and knowledge.

Pop Culture

• In music theory, understanding fundamental chords is key for playing most songs on an instrument.
• Fundamentals are often referenced in sports, where athletes focus on basic skills for better performance.

This word ranks #1,717, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.

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• 1714 thin
• 1715 twelve
• 1716 plane
• 1717 fundamental
• 1718 permitted
• 1719 multiple
• 1720 coast
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