rudimentary

[roo-duh-men-tuh-ree, -tree] / ˌru dəˈmɛn tə ri, -tri /

ADJECTIVE

basic, fundamental

Synonyms

STRONGEST

elemental elementary embryonic primitive simple

WEAK

abecedarian basal beginning early immature initial introductory larval nuts-and-bolts primary simplest uncompleted undeveloped vestigial

Antonyms

STRONGEST

complex complicated difficult intricate sophisticated

WEAK

additional advanced derivative developed extra nonessential

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.

"Anyone with even the most rudimentary knowledge of leasehold knows that outright and immediate abolition of circa five million English and Welsh leases is almost certainly impossible."

From BBC • Apr. 29, 2026

The other was being recruited by Arnold Beckman, a Caltech alum, a renowned inventor of scientific instruments, and scientific advisor to L.A.’s rudimentary air pollution control operation.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 26, 2026

As it hit the pitch, Catan leapt into action and started performing rudimentary CPR, pumping the bird's ribcage.

From Barron's • Feb. 26, 2026

While rudimentary, the Odyssey broke a barrier in the world of television.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 22, 2026

A few minutes’ research in any supermarket is enough to alarm the most stouthearted customer — provided, that is, he has even a rudimentary knowledge of the chemicals presented for his choice.

From "Silent Spring" by Rachel Carson

Vocabulary lists containing rudimentary

Essential Academic Vocabulary for High School Students, List 4

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