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

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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

Example Sentences

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Recent Examples of fundamental

Adjective

But maybe few know why and how Smith rapidly made up his mind to set the tone, a tone that epitomized his grace and character and was fundamental in the development of Mahomes. —

Vahe Gregorian, Kansas City Star, 8 Feb. 2025 But the fundamental rationale for the Pax was always sound. —

Bret Stephens, The Mercury News, 6 Feb. 2025

Noun

The fundamentals include having balanced assortments that cater to customer preferences, which can boost sales by 2 to 5 percent. —

Arthur Zaczkiewicz, WWD, 27 Jan. 2025 Texas Hold’em Poker Lessons for Beginners Monday (weekly) from 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. This beginner’s class is designed to teach the fundamentals of Texas Hold’em in a fun and engaging environment. —

Kris Slugg, San Diego Union-Tribune, 27 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for fundamental

Recent Examples of Synonyms for fundamental

Adjective

By Alice Park February 11, 2025 1:02 PM EST The U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) is the largest funder of biomedical research in the world, and its grants create the foundation of basic science knowledge on which major health advances are built.

— Alice Park, TIME, 11 Feb. 2025
Doctors who have defected in recent years often speak of poor working conditions and shortages of everything from medicine to basic health care supplies.

— Edward Szekeres, CNN, 11 Feb. 2025