fundamental

Definitions

Forming a necessary base or core; of central importance.

A central or primary rule or principle on which something is based.

Relating to the essential nature or underlying structure of something.

Examples

Respect is a fundamental requirement for any healthy relationship.

The scientist made a fundamental discovery that changed our understanding of physics.

Learning the alphabet is fundamental to reading and writing.

Synonyms

essential basic foundational primary core central underlying

Antonyms

secondary superficial trivial nonessential peripheral minor unimportant