ABC
/eɪ biː siː/
NOUN
1. The alphabet or its basic letters
The alphabet, especially its first three letters, or the basic knowledge of letters and their sounds needed for reading and writing.
1.1. The first letters of the alphabet
The letters A, B, and C, often used to represent the alphabet in early literacy learning.
Synonyms
Examples
- The children learned their ABCs through songs and games.
- The teacher helped the preschoolers recognize the letters of the alphabet.
Related Words
1.2. Basic literacy skills
The elementary knowledge of letters, reading, and writing that serves as a foundation for learning a language.
Synonyms
Examples
- The literacy program teaches children the ABCs of reading and writing.
- Learning the basics of spelling is an important early educational milestone.
Related Words
NOUN
2. The fundamental principles of a subject
The most elementary facts, principles, or skills that form the basis for understanding a subject or performing an activity.
2.1. Essential knowledge and fundamentals
The basic principles or essential information that someone needs to understand a topic or begin an activity.
Synonyms
- basics
- fundamentals
- essentials
- rudiments
- elements
- first principles
- nitty-gritty
Antonyms
- details
- trivia
Examples
- New employees must learn the ABC of workplace safety before starting their duties.
- The course introduces the ABCs of digital marketing to beginners.
Related Words
- introductory knowledge
- core concepts
- groundwork
- foundation
- prerequisites
- building blocks
2.2. Foundations and underlying principles
The basic concepts, principles, or assumptions on which a system of knowledge, belief, or practice is built.
Synonyms
- basis
- foundation
- bedrock
- groundwork
- underpinning
- cornerstone
- keystone
Examples
- Understanding the ABC of economics helps students grasp more advanced theories.
- Trust and accountability are part of the foundation of effective teamwork.
Related Words
- framework
- core principles
- supporting structure
- premises
- underlying assumptions
NOUN
3. A fundamental rule, doctrine, or established principle
A basic rule, principle, belief, or doctrine regarded as an essential part of a particular system or field of thought.
3.1. Established rules and principles
A fundamental principle, accepted rule, or guiding precept within a discipline, institution, or system of thought.
Synonyms
Examples
- The professor explained the ABCs of constitutional law to the new students.
- The organization teaches the fundamental principles that guide its decisions.
Related Words
- guideline
- standard
- proposition
- postulate
- convention
- creed
3.2. Basic beliefs and doctrines
A fundamental belief or doctrine that forms part of a religious, philosophical, or ideological system.
Synonyms
Examples
- The introductory course covers the ABCs of the philosophical tradition.
- Students studied the basic doctrines underlying the belief system.
Related Words
- creed
- ideology
- conviction
- teaching
- worldview
- religious principle