fundamentally
UK: ˌfʌndəˈmentəli | US: ˌfʌndəˈmentəli
adv. in a basic and essential way; at the core
adv. used to emphasize the truth or importance of something
The word traces back to Latin fundus (bottom), reflecting the idea of a foundational layer. Over time, fundamentum evolved into "fundamental" in English, retaining its core meaning of "basic or essential." The suffix -ly was added to form the adverb, emphasizing manner or degree. This progression mirrors how physical foundations (like buildings) underpin structures, just as fundamental principles underpin ideas.
The theory is fundamentally flawed in its assumptions.
Her approach to problem-solving is fundamentally different from ours.
Climate change has fundamentally altered ecosystems worldwide.
The two philosophies are fundamentally incompatible.
He disagreed fundamentally with the proposed policy changes.