What is elementary? Pronunciation and usage in English

elementary means . Learn how to pronounce and use elementary through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of elementary

elementaryadjective

/ˌelɪˈmentri//ˌelɪˈmentri/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "elementary." It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

The most common and generally accepted pronunciation is:

/ɪˈlɛmənˌtɛri/

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

  • ɪ - Like the "i" in "bit" (short "i" sound)
  • ˈlɛ - This is the stressed syllable. "L" makes an "eh" sound, like in "bed." It's a closed syllable, meaning it ends in a consonant.
  • mən - Like "man"
  • ˌtɛ - The second syllable is less stressed. "T" makes a "eh" sound, like in "bed."
  • ˈri - Again, stressed. "R" makes an "ah" sound, like in "father."

Putting it all together:

It sounds roughly like: ih-LEM-en-tuh-ree

Here's a helpful way to think about it:

Imagine you're saying "I am an entry." That gets you halfway there.

Resources for Hearing It:

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation?
  • Give you some practice words that use similar sounds?

Usage and examples with the word elementary in English

Let's break down how to use the word "elementary" effectively in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with a few different shades of meaning. Here's a detailed explanation:

1. Basic Meaning: Fundamental or Simple

  • Core Usage: This is the most common meaning. "Elementary" describes something that is basic, fundamental, or simple. It’s the first step or level.
    • Example: "The concept of addition is elementary." (meaning: it's a simple, basic idea)
    • Example: "Starting with elementary Spanish lessons is a good way to begin learning." (meaning: the initial, basic lessons)
    • Example: "The physics behind this experiment is surprisingly elementary." (meaning: it relies on very basic principles)

2. In Logic & Reasoning: Obvious or Self-Evident

  • Logical Context: "Elementary" can be used to describe something that’s so obvious that it’s almost trivially true. It means something that requires no proof.
    • Example: "It’s elementary that water is wet." (meaning: there’s no need to argue about this – it’s undeniably true)
    • Example: "The fact that he was late is elementary; he told me he'd be delayed." (meaning: it’s quite obvious why he was late)

3. Formal/Legal Context: A Case or Point

  • Legal & Formal Usage: In legal or formal settings, “elementary” refers to a specific case or point in a legal argument or discussion. It's often used to indicate a clear, undeniable fact.
    • Example: "The defense’s first argument was an elementary misinterpretation of the witness’s statement." (meaning: a simple, basic error in understanding)

4. Describing a Person (Less Common): Naive or Childlike

  • Rare Usage: Less frequently, “elementary” can describe someone as being naive, simple-minded, or childlike in their thinking. This usage can sometimes be perceived as slightly condescending.
    • Example: "He approached the problem with an elementary understanding of the situation, missing all the nuances." (This suggests he didn't grasp the complexity.) Use this one with caution!

Key Points and How to Avoid Misuse:

  • Tone: "Elementary" can sound a bit fussy or overly formal in casual conversation. It’s often better suited for more formal writing or contexts.
  • Alternatives: If you're not sure if "elementary" is appropriate, consider these synonyms: basic, fundamental, simple, obvious, apparent, clear.

Here's a table to summarize:

Meaning Example Context
Basic/Simple "The elementary stage of development." General description
Obvious/Self-Evident "It's elementary that the sun rises." Logic, reasoning
Legal/Formal "The judge ruled on an elementary point." Legal proceedings
(Rare) Naive "His explanation was elementary." (Use cautiously – can be critical)

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of writing or speaking are you trying to use “elementary” in? (e.g., an essay, a conversation, a presentation?)
  • Can you give me an example sentence you're struggling with?

Synonyms for the word elementary

Practice with vocabulary elementary

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Before tackling advanced physics, students must grasp the ______ principles of mechanics.
  2. Her understanding of spreadsheet functions was quite ______, limiting her ability to analyze complex data efficiently.
  3. A strong customer service ethic is ______ to the long-term success of any business in a competitive market.
  4. The team's first prototype was rather ______, but it effectively demonstrated the core concept for the investors.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (there may be multiple correct answers per question)

  1. Which term best describes the foundational level of a subject, often taught to beginners? a) advanced b) sophisticated c) elementary d) intricate

  2. Which of the following words describe something that is basic, simple, or introductory? (Select all that apply) a) rudimentary b) advanced c) elementary d) sophisticated e) fundamental

  3. The software tutorial covered only the ______ functions, leaving advanced features and complex operations for later modules. a) profound b) elementary c) obscure d) complex

  4. The manager asked the team to ______ the new workflow process immediately to improve efficiency. a) analyze b) comprehend c) implement d) disregard

  5. Before attempting the main task, we need to complete several ______ steps to ensure proper preparation. a) conclusive b) advanced c) preliminary d) final

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: Understanding the basic facts of the situation is crucial for making an informed decision. Rewrite: (Use "elementary" or a related word form)

  2. Original: Her knowledge of coding was very basic, so she struggled with the project requiring complex algorithms. Rewrite: (Use "elementary" or a related word form)

  3. Original: The foundation of their argument was built on flawed assumptions about market behavior. Rewrite: (Do not use "elementary", but use a suitable replacement word)

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. elementary
  2. elementary
  3. fundamental
  4. rudimentary

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. c) elementary
  2. a) rudimentary, c) elementary, e) fundamental
  3. b) elementary
  4. c) implement
  5. c) preliminary

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. A grasp of the elementary facts of the situation is crucial for making an informed decision.
  2. She had only an elementary knowledge of coding, so she struggled with the project requiring complex algorithms.
  3. The fundamental premise of their argument was built on flawed assumptions about market behavior.

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