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Definitions

elementary

[el-uh-men-tuh-ree, -tree] / ˌɛl əˈmɛn tə ri, -tri /
ADJECTIVE
simple, basic
Synonyms
STRONGEST
elemental fundamental rudimentary straightforward underlying
WEAK
ABCs abecedarian basal beginning child's play clear duck soup easy essential facile foundational initial introductory meat and potatoes original plain prefatory preliminary primary primitive primo simplest simplex simplified substratal uncomplex uncomplicated
Antonyms
STRONGEST
additional advanced extra secondary
WEAK
abstruse complex complicated compound difficult hard intricate involved

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The teens are part of Make Great Plays, a grassroots organization that gives elementary school students a chance to dream, excel and believe they belong in educational echelons that once felt out of reach.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 31, 2026

They decided 8-year-old Briana should stay at the same elementary school, to keep her with her friends and teacher.

From Salon • Mar. 24, 2026

Only 43% of Chicago elementary and middle school students can read at grade level, and 27% were proficient in math on state tests in 2025.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 18, 2026

Scientists suspect that this subtle rotation could be linked to hypothetical elementary particles called axions.

From Science Daily • Mar. 16, 2026

“Biff’s that really tall kid who goes to the other elementary school,” he told his brother, Chet, and Iola.

From "Mystery Map (The Hardy Boys: Secret Files, #3)" by Franklin W. Dixon

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.