basic
English meaning: Basic
Definition
A necessary commodity, a staple requirement.
Example
“Rice is a basic for many Asian villagers.”
Another example: “Before the exam, make sure you have mastered the basics.”
Usage — When, Where & How
As a noun, a fundamental necessity ('the basics'); also the name of a programming language ('BASIC'). As an adjective, simple or essential. Informally, 'basic' can mean unoriginal or mainstream (slang). Neutral register for the standard senses.
Etymology & Origin
English — Origin & History
From 'base' + '-ic', from Late Latin 'basis' 'foundation', from Greek 'basis' 'a step'; mid-19th century.
Synonyms
Antonyms / Opposites
Related Words
- necessities
- appropriation
- funding
- premise
- accountability
- amenities
- principles
- pupil
- enacted
- concepts
Common Collocations
- basic needs
- basic skills
- back to basics
- basic principles
- basic salary
- basic understanding
Word Forms
basic (adj); basics (pl n); basically (adv)
Word Tools
Literary Heritage
“To thine own self be true, and it must follow, as the night the day, thou canst not then be false to any man.”
/To thine own self be true/
“Be honest with yourself — and as naturally as night follows day, you will be unable to be false to others.”
“I'm nobody! Who are you? Are you nobody, too?”
/I'm nobody! Who are you?/
“I am nobody — and that quiet anonymity is more honest than the noise of public fame.”
Images
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Language information
- Language
- English
- English
- Script
- Latin
- Family
- Indo-European
- Speakers
- 1.5B