根本
gēn běnFundamental or basic; the most important or essential part of something.
根本原因是什么？
What is the root cause?
他根本不懂这件事。
He doesn't understand this at all.
Can be used as an adverb to emphasize negation or strong disagreement.
Radical or extreme; used to describe something that is very different or far-reaching.
这个改革根本性地改变了我们的工作方式。
This reform fundamentally changed our way of working.
In this sense, it often implies a significant or transformative change.
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💡Pro Tip
Negation Intensifier
When used with '不', '根本' emphasizes strong negation, similar to 'not at all' in English.
⚡Gold Rule
Context Matters
The meaning can shift between 'fundamental' and 'radical' depending on context.
📖Word Origin
Composed of '根' (root) and '本' (origin or foundation), emphasizing the foundational nature of something.
📝Usage Notes
When used as an adverb (e.g., '根本不'), it often intensifies negation, similar to 'not at all' or 'completely not' in English.