Fundamentally

Definition

Fundamentally refers to in central or primary respects; at the core or root.

Parts of Speech

• Adverb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌfʌndəˈmɛntəli/
• Respelling: fun-duh-MEN-tuh-lee (with "fun" as in "fun," "duh" as in "sofa," "MEN" as in "men," "tuh" as in "sofa," and "lee" as in "see")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌfʌndəˈmɛntəli/
• Respelling: fun-duh-MEN-tuh-lee (with "fun" as in "fun," "duh" as in "sofa," "MEN" as in "men," "tuh" as in "sofa," and "lee" as in "see")

In both dialects, "fundamentally" places the primary stress on the third syllable, "MEN." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "fun-duh-MEN-tuh-lee."

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word "fundamentum," meaning "foundation," and the suffix "-ally," which turns adjectives into adverbs, denoting manner.

Derivatives

• Fundamental (adjective)
• Fundament (noun, archaic)
• Fundamentalist (noun/adjective)
• Fundamentalism (noun)
• Fundamentality (noun, rare)

Synonyms

• Basically
• Essentially
• Primarily

Antonyms

• Superficially
• Incidentally
• Peripherally

Usage

"Fundamentally" is used to emphasize the essential or primary aspects of something, often contrasting with superficial details or secondary aspects. It is commonly employed in both written and spoken language to assert that something remains true or consistent at its core, despite any apparent changes or differences on the surface.

Related Terms

• Base
• Core
• Root
• Principle
• Underpinning

Detailed Definition

Adverb

• Referring to the Core or Essential Nature of Something: Used to indicate that something is true or relevant at its most basic level or in its most important aspects.
  • Example: The two companies are fundamentally different in their approach to customer service.

• Emphasizing the Basic Principles: Highlighting the underlying principles or essential components of a concept, argument, or situation.
  • Example: Fundamentally, the issue revolves around the allocation of resources.