fundamental truth

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fundamental truth" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a basic or essential principle that is widely accepted or considered to be true. Example: "The fundamental truth of the matter is that honesty is the best policy in all situations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

There is no fundamental truth underlying it.

The New York Times

This is the fundamental truth in the thought of G.W.F.

Encyclopedia Britannica

That is a fundamental truth of information industries.

The New York Times

The search for a fundamental truth to it all.

The Guardian - Opinion

That fundamental truth was forgotten in the boom years.

The New York Times

But more than anything, Schork understood a fundamental truth.

The Guardian

Weapons scientists know this fundamental truth, even if senators don't.

The New York Times

But beyond this lies a more fundamental truth.

The Guardian

This fundamental truth lies at the heart of how we conduct ourselves".

The New York Times

And all of the principles are subsumed to a fundamental "truth".

The New York Times

What is the one fundamental truth that all storytellers must know?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "fundamental truth", ensure the context clearly establishes why the stated truth is essential and foundational to the argument or discussion. Ground the truth in evidence or widely accepted principles.

Common error

Avoid using "fundamental truth" to describe statements that are merely opinions or subjective beliefs. Ensure the statement genuinely reflects a universally or widely accepted reality within the specific context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fundamental truth" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often used to introduce or emphasize a core principle or underlying reality. It is used to present a statement as an essential and foundational aspect of a given situation or argument, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "fundamental truth" is a commonly used noun phrase to emphasize a core, underlying principle or reality. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and broad applicability across various contexts. It's most frequently found in news and media, as well as encyclopedic entries, and has a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly establishes why the stated truth is essential and foundational. Consider alternatives like "core truth", "basic truth", or "essential truth" to add nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

core truth

Focuses on the central, most important aspect of a truth.

basic truth

Emphasizes the simplicity and foundational nature of the truth.

essential truth

Highlights the necessity and indispensability of the truth.

underlying truth

Suggests a truth that is not immediately obvious but forms the basis of something.

key truth

Emphasizes the importance and significance of the truth.

central tenet

Refers to a core principle or belief, often within a system of thought.

foundational principle

Highlights the role of the truth as a basis for reasoning or action.

bedrock principle

Emphasizes the stability and unshakeable nature of the principle.

elementary truth

Indicates a simple and easily understood truth.

axiomatic truth

Suggests a truth that is self-evident and requires no proof.

FAQs

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

You can use "fundamental truth" to introduce a core concept or principle that underlies a situation. For example, "The fundamental truth is that without investment, growth is impossible".

What can I say instead of "fundamental truth"?

You can use alternatives like "core truth", "basic truth", or "essential truth" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "basic fundamental truth"?

Yes, using both "basic" and "fundamental" together is generally redundant. Both words convey a similar meaning of being foundational, so it's best to choose one or the other to avoid unnecessary repetition.

What is the difference between "fundamental truth" and "self-evident truth"?

"Fundamental truth" refers to a core, underlying principle, while "self-evident truth" implies that the truth is obvious and requires no proof. While a fundamental truth can also be self-evident, the emphasis is on its foundational importance rather than its obviousness.