fundamental ideas

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fundamental ideas" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing core concepts or principles that form the basis of a theory, argument, or system. Example: "In her lecture, she emphasized the fundamental ideas that underpin modern physics."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The courts have repeatedly made these fundamental ideas clear.

The New York Times

"Many of the fundamental ideas and qualities I have today were formed in Yan'an".

The New Yorker

We began to flesh out each of the three central points with five fundamental ideas.

The Economist

It is dismaying, but true, that we still need to remind ourselves of such fundamental ideas.

The New York Times

Explaining how fundamental ideas, like space, emerge from particles is a tradition in physics.

The New York Times - Science

This experience forged the fundamental ideas about climbing, and life, that frame his book.

The New York Times - Books

Two fundamental ideas were at its core: the individual is rational, and the individual is endowed with inalienable rights.

The New York Times

This development was stimulated by the doctrine of Spinoza, from whom Mendelssohn and others took certain fundamental ideas concerning Judaism.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This, combined with the underlying river of fundamental ideas, makes Momentum a rewarding, though exhausting, read on many levels.

The Guardian

"It's an amplification and an accomplishment of the fundamental ideas of the site and in many cases it's an improvement".

The New York Times - Arts

But those fundamental ideas always need to be revised if the subject is to live and develop.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "fundamental ideas" to connect seemingly disparate concepts, demonstrating how they share a common base.

Common error

Avoid assuming that your audience already grasps the "fundamental ideas". Start with clear, concise explanations to level the playing field.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fundamental ideas" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "fundamental" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "ideas". It's used to denote the core or foundational concepts within a particular field or context, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

34%

News & Media

31%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "fundamental ideas" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression for highlighting core principles or concepts. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and prevalence across diverse fields like science, news, and encyclopedias. To enhance clarity and avoid assumptions, always ensure a shared understanding of these "fundamental ideas" when communicating complex topics. Consider using synonyms like "core principles" or "basic concepts" to adapt to specific contexts and audience needs.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

core principles

Emphasizes the foundational rules or guidelines.

basic concepts

Focuses on the elementary understanding of a subject.

essential concepts

Highlights the critical concepts necessary for understanding.

foundational principles

Stresses the groundwork upon which a system is built.

key notions

Highlights the most important thoughts or beliefs.

central tenets

Refers to the core beliefs or doctrines of a system.

underlying principles

Focuses on the implicit rules that govern a process.

primary concepts

Highlights the initial or most important ideas.

seminal ideas

Focuses on the original and influential thoughts.

elementary principles

Emphasizes the introductory rules or guidelines.

FAQs

How can I use "fundamental ideas" in a sentence?

You can use "fundamental ideas" to introduce core concepts or principles. For example, "The course covers the "fundamental ideas" of calculus" or "Understanding these "fundamental ideas" is crucial for success".

What are some alternatives to "fundamental ideas"?

Some alternatives include "core principles", "basic concepts", "essential concepts", or "foundational principles" depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "fundamental ideas" and "basic ideas"?

"Fundamental ideas" typically refer to the most crucial and foundational concepts, while "basic ideas" might encompass a broader range of introductory or simple concepts. Fundamental implies a deeper, more essential role.

Is it better to say "the fundamental idea" or "the fundamental ideas"?

Use "the fundamental idea" when referring to a single, core concept. Use "the "fundamental ideas"" when referring to multiple underlying principles or concepts.