as in basic
of or relating to the simplest facts or theories of a subject
even if you're not planning on becoming a scientist, you should have an elemental knowledge of chemistry
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Recent Examples of elemental
In past discussions, Asimov had employed the apt analogy of examining the elemental motion of gasses, where movements of each individual molecule is nearly impossible to predict, but taken as a whole its progressions and paths can be charted out across inconceivable oceans of time.
—
Jeff Spry, Space.com, 29 Aug. 2025
Like Mare, but slightly more elegant in its plotting, Task uses the detective-story format and the specificity of its rural Pennsylvania setting to explore elemental human problems.
—Judy Berman, Time, 28 Aug. 2025
This produces both nobelium and element 89, actinium (Ac), which is found at the opposite end of the same elemental group as nobelium on the periodic table.
—David Szondy
august 27, New Atlas, 27 Aug. 2025
But in the raw, elemental sense of being awake to the miracle and the absurdity of existence.
—Big Think, 20 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for elemental
Jeff Spry, Space.com, 29 Aug. 2025
Like Mare, but slightly more elegant in its plotting, Task uses the detective-story format and the specificity of its rural Pennsylvania setting to explore elemental human problems.
—Judy Berman, Time, 28 Aug. 2025
This produces both nobelium and element 89, actinium (Ac), which is found at the opposite end of the same elemental group as nobelium on the periodic table.
—David Szondy
august 27, New Atlas, 27 Aug. 2025
But in the raw, elemental sense of being awake to the miracle and the absurdity of existence.
—Big Think, 20 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for elemental
Recent Examples of Synonyms for elemental
Adjective
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Interior trims range from basic to luxurious, but all feature easy to use controls, physical switches and dials for key functions and one of the auto industry’s best touch screens and infotainment systems.—
Mark Phelan,
Freep.com,
6 Sep. 2025
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For foot passengers who don’t mind simple accommodation, fares for a basic cabin typically range from $35—$75 per person.—
David Nikel,
Forbes.com,
6 Sep. 2025
Adjective
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Two of the leaders of Sticks & Sprouts gave a status update on the potential mud-and-water project for the patch of dirt next to the elementary-school playground.—
Charlotte Alter,
Time,
5 Sep. 2025
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Catherine Ament of Rolling Prairie, near LaPorte, was studying to be an elementary teacher.—
Philip Potempa,
Chicago Tribune,
5 Sep. 2025
Adjective
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Even if partners don’t agree on every single detail pertaining to religion or politics, most healthy couples nevertheless share a rudimentary worldview.—
Mark Travers,
Forbes.com,
8 Sep. 2025
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Set in 1994 and kitted out with plenty of period-appropriate details, the film’s setting allows for all sorts of mystery (and one, quite funny, rudimentary internet search).—
Kate Erbland,
IndieWire,
5 Sep. 2025
Adjective
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Rodrigo’s introductory project is now up to 224 weeks on the main albums tally and streaming roster, but only 196 turns on the all-encompassing sales list.—
Hugh McIntyre,
Forbes.com,
9 Sep. 2025
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There’s a simmering rage and self-loathing to Blakey, which Latif matches in the form of unpredictable camera motion, but these introductory moments are about as energetic as the movie ever gets.—
Siddhant Adlakha,
Variety,
6 Sep. 2025
Adjective
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Their approach is founded on collaboration, where solidarity plays a fundamental role.—
Caterina De Biasio,
Vogue,
11 Sep. 2025
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This shift represents a fundamental change in how professional development happens, with corporations taking direct responsibility for credentialing workers in emerging technologies.—
Malana VanTyler,
USA Today,
11 Sep. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Elemental.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/elemental. Accessed 14 Sep. 2025.
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