Definition

Noun: 1. A primary, essential, or foundational rule, law, or truth: A "fundamental principle" is a basic, underlying concept or proposition that serves as the groundwork for a system of belief, behavior, or reasoning. It is a core truth from which other ideas or rules are derived.

Usage

The term "fundamental principle" is used to denote the most essential and non-negotiable tenets of a theory, philosophy, system, or organization. It describes a rule that is central and foundational. - It is often used in academic, scientific, legal, and philosophical contexts. - It is typically treated as a singular concept, though multiple principles can exist within a system.

Examples

• In Science:
• In Law:
• In Ethics:
• In Business:

Advanced Usage

• "To be a fundamental principle": To serve as a core, indispensable tenet.
  • Freedom of speech is considered to be a fundamental principle in a democratic society.
• "To violate a fundamental principle": To act in a way that contradicts a core rule.
  • The court's decision was criticized for violating a fundamental principle of fairness.

Variants and Related Words

• Fundamental (adj/noun): Basic, essential; or a central or primary rule or fact.
  • She understands the fundamentals of calculus.
• Principle (noun): A fundamental truth or proposition that serves as the foundation for a system of belief or behavior.
  • He is a man of strong moral principles.
• Basic (adj/noun): Forming an essential foundation; a fundamental element.
• Tenet (noun): A principle or belief, especially one of the main principles of a religion or philosophy.
• Cornerstone (noun): An important quality or feature on which a particular thing depends or is based.

Synonyms

• Basic principle
• Foundational rule
• Core tenet
• Primary axiom
• Bedrock concept

Antonyms

• Derivative idea
• Secondary rule
• Incidental detail
• Peripheral concept

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "Get down to fundamentals/basics": To focus on the most essential and important aspects of something.
  • To solve this problem, we need to get down to fundamentals.
• "A matter of principle": Something involving a question of moral or ethical standards.
  • He refused the offer on a matter of principle.

Noun

1. principles from which other truths can be derived
   • first you must learn the fundamentals
   • let's get down to basics