plural noun
The simplest and most important facts, ideas, or skills needed to understand or do something.
It's important to master the basics before moving on.
She teaches the basics of cooking in her class.
American English
How to pronounce basics
nounA2Common word
BAYsihks
/ˈbeɪ.sɪks/
2 syllables · Stress the first syllable.
Form of basic
This plural noun is often used with the: the basics.
The simplest and most important facts, ideas, or skills needed to understand or do something.
Practice out loudMeanings & examples
Useful expressions
The simplest and most important facts or skills.
Let's go over the basics before the test.
A return to simple, fundamental methods or ideas.
The team went back to basics after several losses.
Training that teaches the first skills needed for a job or activity, especially in the military.
All new soldiers begin with basic training.