French word

cardinal

Pronunciation

IPA/kaʁdinal/

Meaning

  • adjectivefundamental

Example

C'est une erreur cardinale.

It is a fundamental error.

Illustration for cardinal (fundamental)

More examples

La ponctualité est un principe cardinal.

Punctuality is a fundamental principle.

Core concept

A hinge point that supports the whole structure.

Common phrases

  • erreur cardinale

    fundamental error

  • principe cardinal

    fundamental principle

Similar words

indispensable: Necessary to achieve a particular purpose.
essentiel: Necessary for something to exist or function.
principal: Central in importance or position.

Definition in French

Qui est essentiel, très important à la base d'une chose.

Word origin

French cardinal comes from Latin cardinalis, derived from cardo, meaning "hinge" or "pivot," and developed a sense of central importance.

Usage tips

  • Cardinal has a formal tone, while fondamental and essentiel are more common in ordinary speech.

Other meanings

  • cardinalnoun
  • cardinal numbernoun

Opposites

Word lists with this word