fundamental
adjectiveCEFR B2
What does “fundamental” mean in English?
fundamental — forming a necessary base; of central importance
fundamental — forming a necessary base; of central importance (principio fundamental, cambio fundamental)
Example sentences
El derecho a la privacidad es fundamental en una sociedad democrática y debe estar protegido por ley.
The right to privacy is fundamental in a democratic society and must be protected by law.
Jugar un papel fundamental en el proceso de toma de decisiones le otorga a ese comité una influencia desproporcionada.
Playing a fundamental role in the decision-making process gives that committee a disproportionate influence.
How to use it
Fundamental means 'fundamental' — forming the necessary base; of central importance. Similar to esencial and básico but more emphatic about being foundational. Common constructions: ser fundamental + para/que. Ser: always ser. Key collocations: derecho fundamental, principio fundamental, papel fundamental, cambio fundamental.
Common mistake
Fundamental vs esencial: both mean crucial, but fundamental suggests being the foundation or basis of something (fundamentals of a system); esencial emphasises indispensability (cannot be removed without breaking the whole).