Synonyms for

Core

Verb / kɔ:r / Another word for core — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

The central or most important part of something.

Synonyms & similar words

nittygritty center marrow coregroup congressofracialequality gist heartandsoul magneticcore meat nub nucleus substance centre kernel essence burden pith inwardness heart sum core effect center heart nucleus essence crux kernel hub pivot focus mainstay backbone root meat marrow gist substance fundament underlying basis foundation

Synonyms by register

Formal

center heart nucleus essence crux

Informal

middle gist main part insides

Literary

kernel marrow bosom

Antonyms

periphery exterior surface outside shell margin

Common collocations

  • core values
  • core strength
  • core curriculum
  • core principle
  • core competency
  • core issue
  • core belief

Word family

noun core
verb core
adjective core

Usage note

The word 'core' often implies the most essential or central part of something, whether abstract or physical. It can also refer to the central part of a fruit or a planet.

Example sentences

  1. The core of the argument was that they couldn't afford to buy a new car.
  2. The core of the issue is the lack of communication between the two departments.
  3. The core of the apple was hard to chew.
  4. The core of the tree was rotten.
  5. The core of the problem was that they didn't have enough money to pay their bills.

Quotes

  • The core of man's spirit comes from new experiences.
  • The hardest part of any task is getting started, but once you're over the hump, the core work is the most rewarding.
  • The core of your true self is never lost. Let go of all the pretending and the being you're supposed to be and embrace the person you are.

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