get the fundamentals right

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "get the fundamentals right" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when emphasizing the importance of mastering basic principles or concepts before moving on to more complex ideas or tasks. Example: "Before we dive into advanced strategies, it's crucial to get the fundamentals right to ensure a solid foundation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

I would like to see American cities supporting urban cyclists, but they have to get the fundamentals right.

The New York Times

Their belief that they can get a medal is not misplaced – but only if they can get the fundamentals right.

The Guardian - Sport

And I think what we've shown in London is that when you get the fundamentals right, and you fill a stadium, then track and field can stand tall against any other sport in the world".

The New York Times - Sports

The Chancellor also presented the Conservatives as the party which can "get the fundamentals right" to ensure prosperity - things such as economic stability; safe banks; excellent schools; competitive taxes; boosting science and sound money.

Independent

Defences at the top level become tougher to break down each season and the priority will always be to get the fundamentals right, but my philosophy has always been to look to win games rather than not to lose them.

The Guardian - Sport

It is precisely because we have taken the time to get the fundamentals right and held to a steady course that we are better placed to cope with the uncertainties in the world economy this year.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

The crucial issue is getting the fundamentals right.

The New York Times

The Melbourne Storm are built on fitness and defence and getting the fundamentals right.

The Guardian - Sport

Hattie was a woman who believed that the secret for success in life was getting the fundamentals right.

The New York Times

"There are short-sellers that got the fundamentals right but were not around to profit from their forecasts," he said.

The New York Times

From John Longworth, director general of the British Chambers of Commerce It was heartening to hear George Osborne bring the debate back to our incomplete economic recovery, and the importance of getting the fundamentals right for the future.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "get the fundamentals right", ensure that the context clearly defines what those fundamentals are. This provides clarity and prevents ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "get the fundamentals right" without specifying which fundamentals are being referred to. This can lead to confusion and weaken your message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "get the fundamentals right" functions as an idiomatic expression used to emphasize the importance of focusing on and mastering basic principles or essential elements. Ludwig AI confirms this through its analysis of numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

17%

Academia

4%

Less common in

Science

4%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "get the fundamentals right" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to stress the importance of mastering basic principles. As Ludwig AI indicates, it appears frequently in news, business, and academic contexts. When using this phrase, it's crucial to clearly specify what those fundamentals are to avoid ambiguity. Related alternatives include "master the basics" and "nail the essentials". Overlooking contextual clarity is a common mistake, so ensure the context defines the fundamentals to prevent confusion and enhance the effectiveness of your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

master the basics

Focuses on achieving proficiency in essential skills.

nail the essentials

Highlights the need to perfectly execute core elements.

establish a solid foundation

Emphasizes the creation of a firm base for future development.

get the groundwork right

Stresses the importance of correct preliminary steps.

get your ducks in a row

Implies organizing and preparing all necessary elements.

cover the basics

Focuses on addressing the essential elements.

ensure a firm footing

Highlights the need for stability and security from the start.

lay the foundation

Implies beginning by establishing a base.

address core principles

Focuses on paying attention and resolving main principles.

attend to the basics

Highlights the need to take care of main elements.

FAQs

How can I use "get the fundamentals right" in a sentence?

You can use "get the fundamentals right" to emphasize the importance of mastering basic principles before advancing to more complex topics. For example: "Before launching the product, we need to "get the fundamentals right" in marketing and sales."

What does "get the fundamentals right" mean?

"Get the fundamentals right" means to ensure that the basic principles, essential skills, or foundational elements are correctly understood and applied before proceeding with more advanced or complex tasks.

What can I say instead of "get the fundamentals right"?

Alternatives include "master the basics", "nail the essentials", or "establish a solid foundation", depending on the context.

Is it better to focus on advanced strategies or "get the fundamentals right" first?

It's generally better to "get the fundamentals right" first. A strong foundation makes advanced strategies more effective and sustainable in the long run.