fundamental
Definitions
Forming the necessary base or core; of central importance
基本的，根本的，至关重要的
A basic principle, rule, or fact that the rest is built on
基本原理，基础（常用复数 fundamentals）
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedfund (bottom) + -ment + -al = 'belonging to the bottom layer.' A fundamental principle is the load-bearing one — pull it out and everything above collapses. That's why fundamental is stronger than 'important': it means structurally necessary, not merely significant.
Root fund still carries 32 more wordsCommon Collocations
- 1.fundamental principle基本原则
- 2.fundamental right基本权利
- 3.fundamental change根本性改变
- 4.fundamental difference根本区别
Example Sentences
- 1.
Freedom of speech is a fundamental right in a democracy.
- 2.
There is a fundamental difference between the two theories.
- 3.
Before you trade, learn the fundamentals of the market.
Easily Confused
fundamental vs essential — both mean 'absolutely needed,' but fundamental points to the deepest base layer (a fundamental law of physics), while essential points to what is indispensable for a purpose (water is essential for life). Fundamental answers 'what is it built on?'; essential answers 'what can't we do without?'