fundamental topic

USAGE SUMMARY

"fundamental topic" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use this phrase when referring to a major theme or important idea that forms the basis of a discussion or lecture. For example, "The professor devoted the entirety of her lecture to the fundamental topic of human behavior in the workplace."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

Akomfrah sees Hall as a calm figure who insists on the fundamental topic of equality – yet without getting angry at the surface flashpoints of history.

The Guardian - Film

This is the fundamental topic of Kant's "theory of cognition" (Erkenntnistheorie).

SEP

In this process, the issue of obstacle avoidance is a fundamental topic to be challenged.

Journal of the Franklin Institute

This article deals with design techniques for algorithms, a fundamental topic for computational sciences, including bioinformatics.

Reference Module in Life Sciences

The interplay between cells and materials is a fundamental topic in biomaterial-based tissue regeneration.

Acta Biomaterialia

Dimensionality Reduction (DR) is a fundamental topic of pattern classification and machine learning.

Neurocomputing

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

Solution of the anomalous transport problem involves research into fundamental topics in plasma physics, such as plasma turbulence.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Even though he addresses some fundamental topics of human existence and responsibility – first and foremost, the moral legacy of the Nazi occupation in France and the ambiguous actions of many Frenchmen under it – he does it with remarkable lightness of touch, and with a personal relevance that makes these questions pertinent to his contemporaries, French or not.

The Guardian - Books

The process of relaxation of these beams is one of the fundamental topics in plasma physics.

Advances in Space Research

Bolzano's teaching was concerned exclusively with fundamental topics of theology; in addition he worked mainly in logic.

SEP

The potential role of glucose toxicity and enhanced glycolysis and correlations to mitochondrial altered oxidative damage are fundamental topics for future investigations.

Clinical and Translational Medicine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "fundamental topic" to signal the discussion of the underpinning concepts that need to be understood.

Common error

Avoid using "fundamental topic" when referring to subjects that are already widely understood or considered self-evident within your audience's domain. This can make your writing seem patronizing or lacking in depth.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fundamental topic" functions as a noun phrase that acts as a subject complement or object. It serves to identify a basic concept or essential subject matter under discussion, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

79%

News & Media

7%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "fundamental topic" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig, particularly in science, news, and encyclopedia contexts. It highlights the essential nature of a subject, functioning as a noun phrase. While suitable for formal writing, avoid overusing it for self-evident topics. Consider alternatives like "key subject" or "core issue" to add variety. The phrase serves to emphasize that it defines a basic concept or essential subject matter under discussion. Keep the focus on the topic's relevance for clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

key subject

This alternative focuses on the importance of the subject matter.

core issue

This highlights the central problem or point of concern.

basic concept

This emphasizes the elementary nature of the topic.

essential theme

This stresses the thematic importance.

primary focus

This highlights what is most important.

central idea

This alternative emphasizes the main thought or notion.

foundational principle

This underscores the groundwork upon which something is built.

cornerstone concept

This draws a connection to something structurally vital.

underlying principle

This highlights that the idea is a base for a theory.

critical element

This emphasizes the vital component of the topic.

FAQs

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

You can use "fundamental topic" to introduce a basic concept that needs to be understood, such as, "The professor began by outlining the fundamental topic of supply and demand."

What's a good alternative to "fundamental topic"?

Depending on the context, you might use alternatives like "key subject", "core issue", or "essential theme".

Is it appropriate to use "fundamental topic" in formal writing?

Yes, "fundamental topic" is suitable for formal writing, especially in academic or professional contexts where you need to emphasize the basic or foundational nature of a subject.

What makes a topic "fundamental"?

A "fundamental" topic is one that serves as a basic building block for understanding more complex ideas or concepts within a particular field of study. It's often essential knowledge for anyone new to the subject.