Definition

Noun: 1. The organic or supreme law of a nation or state: A "fundamental law" is the foundational, supreme legal document or set of principles that establishes the basic structure, powers, and duties of a government, and guarantees the fundamental rights of its citizens. It is the highest legal authority from which all other laws derive their validity.

Usage

The term "fundamental law" is used formally to refer to a constitution or charter that serves as the primary legal framework for a political entity. It is often used in legal, political, and historical contexts. - It is typically used as a singular noun phrase. - It can be preceded by definite or indefinite articles (the, a).

Examples

• The nation's fundamental law clearly separates the powers of the executive, legislative, and judicial branches.
• Amending a fundamental law is usually a complex process requiring broad consensus.
• Scholars studied the historical development of the country's fundamental law.

Advanced Usage

• "To enact/establish a fundamental law": To formally create and put into effect a foundational constitution.
  • The newly independent state moved quickly to enact a fundamental law.
• "In accordance with the fundamental law": A phrase used to indicate that an action or decision is compliant with the supreme legal document.
  • The court's ruling was made in accordance with the fundamental law.

Variants and Related Words

• Constitution (n): The most common synonym for "fundamental law"; the system of fundamental principles according to which a nation or state is governed.
• Charter (n): A written grant or constitution, especially one defining the rights and privileges of a city, corporation, or institution.
• Organic Law (n): A law or system of laws that forms the foundation of a government; often used interchangeably with "fundamental law."

Synonyms

• Constitution
• Charter
• Organic law
• Supreme law
• Basic law

Related Phrases

• Constitutional law: The body of law derived from and interpreting a constitution.
• Founding document: A document that establishes an organization or state, such as a constitution or charter.

Noun

1. law determining the fundamental political principles of a government