1 (basic) [+question, problem, principle] fundamental the fundamental problem lies in their inability to distinguish between reality and invention the fundamental problem is that... this raises fundamental questions about the benefits of such a policy language is a fundamental part of the curriculum it is one of the fundamental laws of physics his doctrine is based on three fundamental principles President Saddam has violated fundamental principles of international law
they are being denied their fundamental human rights se les está privando de los derechos humanos fundamentales
the 1973 Roe vs. Wade ruling that women have a fundamental right to choose an abortion I think there is a fundamental right to privacy
2 (profound, great) [+change, difference] fundamental there's been a fundamental change in world politics today's figures do not suggest a fundamental change in economic prospects Only a fundamental change in social relations will provide women with equality we need to see a fundamental change in attitude on the part of the Iraquis Amnesty says there are fundamental flaws in their military justice system there is a fundamental difference between myself and the board on this matter on this question the two leaders have fundamental differences
it is a fundamental mistake to think that ... es un error fundamental pensar que ...
she made one fundamental mistake it is a matter of fundamental [importance]
3 (essential) fundamental; esencial he has a fundamental role to play in its implementation
to be fundamental to sth ser fundamental esencial para algo;or it is fundamental to our understanding of the problem es fundamental esencial para que entendamos el problema;or
he believes better relations with China are fundamental to the well-being of the area
4 (intrinsic) [+honesty, good sense] intrínseco his fundamental honesty/good sense
