fundamentally

[ fuhn-duh-men-tl-ee ]

adverb

1. in a fundamental and essential way; centrally and foundationally:

   a nine-point plan that will fundamentally transform our system of eldercare.

2. as regards the basic nature, character, or truth of something; basically and often emphatically:

   Fundamentally, they just want their independence.

Other Words From

• non·fun·da·men·tal·ly adverb
• un·fun·da·men·tal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of fundamentally¹

First recorded in 1600–20; fundamental ( def ) + -ly ( def )

Example Sentences

Clare has acknowledged that some service providers may face difficult budget decisions but said that any assertion the policy is "somehow tearing down international education is absolutely and fundamentally wrong".

From BBC

Even while free on bail for six years, he was “fundamentally unwilling to comply” with the law, prosecutors said.

From New York Times

But fundamentally, the crux of the problem persists.

From Salon

He argued it was "fundamentally unfair" for a block of clerics to "have a right and a say over our legislation".

From BBC

The strategic review is designed to fundamentally change how the Post Office operates.

From BBC