FUNDAMENTAL Synonyms: 148 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

fundamental 1 of 2

adjective

ˌfən-də-ˈmen-tᵊl

Definition of fundamental next

as in basic

of or relating to the simplest facts or theories of a subject the purpose of the course is to furnish students with fundamental knowledge of human reproduction

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

fundamental

2 of 2

noun

as in axiom

Synonyms & Similar Words

as in essence

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

Examples 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

Lane reductions make fundamental (and growing) commercial transit next to impossible. —

Reader Commentary, Baltimore Sun, 18 Dec. 2024 So, then, what, really, was the fuss? Cheating, even in the abstract, touches a nerve like no other form of transgression, laying bare a fundamental insecurity about relationships which, as celebrities demonstrate, no allotment of money, talent, or good looks can foreclose. —

Lauren Michele Jackson, The New Yorker, 18 Dec. 2024

Noun

This guide will equip students with essential financial skills, covering the fundamentals of budgeting, saving, investing, and managing debt. —

Kody Boye, Journal Sentinel, 12 Dec. 2024 As a starting point, Skyline 10 is a well-rounded map that understands the core fundamentals of tactical multiplayer shooters. —

Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 12 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for fundamental

Recent Examples of Synonyms for fundamental

Adjective

Seniors receive excellent service with weekly housekeeping, personal grocery shopping, a 24-hour pharmacy pick-up, basic technology training, and more.

Tyler Shepherd, USA TODAY, 20 Dec. 2024
From starting with basic gear to eventually joining a team, each step is about building ability and competitiveness.

Benedict Cosgrove, Newsweek, 19 Dec. 2024