Synonyms for

Elemental

Verb / ˌelʌˈmentʌl / / ˌelʌˈmenʌl / Another word for elemental — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

relating to the basic or essential parts of something

Synonyms & similar words

primary elementary basic fundamental primary essential elementary radical underlying intrinsic natural innate inherent inborn indigenous immanent built-in inbuilt constitutional innate intuitive

Synonyms by register

Formal

fundamental basic primary essential

Informal

basic simple natural raw

Literary

primal archaic rudimentary

Antonyms

complex artificial sophisticated refined unnatural manufactured

Common collocations

  • elemental force
  • elemental nature
  • elemental power
  • elemental fear
  • elemental beauty
  • elemental needs
  • elemental spirit

Word family

noun element
adjective elemental
adverb elementally

Usage note

Often used to describe things that are basic, natural, or fundamental. It can also refer to the forces of nature or basic chemical elements.

Example sentences

  1. The elements of the periodic table are considered elemental substances.
  2. The basic building blocks of matter are elemental particles.
  3. The elemental forces of nature can be powerful.
  4. Understanding the elemental principles is essential to mastering a subject.
  5. The elemental nature of the problem was clear from the beginning.

Quotes

  • The elements are the building blocks of all matter, and the study of the elements is fundamental to our understanding of the universe. - John Emsley
  • In the world of physics, we are all children. We can never reach the level of sophistication that would allow us to understand the elemental laws that govern our universe. - John C. Polanyi
  • The elements of chemistry are the letters of which one can spell out the secrets of the universe. - Carl Wilhelm Scheele

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