elemental
“elemental” means “basic” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
basic
Also: fundamental, essential
📝 In Action
El agua es un recurso elemental para la vida.
A1Water is a basic resource for life.
Necesitas aprender las reglas elementales del juego.
A2You need to learn the basic rules of the game.
Es un derecho elemental de todo ser humano.
B1It is a fundamental right of every human being.
elementary
Also: obvious
📝 In Action
Es un error elemental, deberías haberlo visto.
B1It's an elementary mistake, you should have seen it.
¡Elemental, mi querido Watson!
A2Elementary, my dear Watson!
La solución al problema resultó ser elemental.
B2The solution to the problem turned out to be elementary.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: elemental
Question 1 of 3
If something is 'un error elemental', what does it mean?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'elementalis', which refers to 'elementum' (the first principles or basic components of things). It was originally used to describe the primary building blocks of the universe.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does 'elemental' always go after the noun?
Usually, yes. In Spanish, descriptive adjectives like 'elemental' follow the noun (e.g., 'conocimiento elemental'). Putting it before the noun is very rare and usually limited to poetic or highly formal writing.
Can I use 'elemental' to talk about the weather or elements?
Yes, but it's more common in literature. You might hear 'fuerzas elementales' to refer to the forces of nature like wind, fire, or earth.
Is 'elemental' more formal than 'básico'?
Yes, 'elemental' carries a slightly more sophisticated or serious tone, whereas 'básico' is used in everyday conversation for almost anything simple.