basic idea
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basic idea
The central, fundamental idea or guiding principle on which a concept, plan, work, or theory is based.
Der Grundgedanke des Projekts ist es, Bildung für alle zugänglich zu machen.
The basic idea of the project is to make education accessible to everyone.
This word consists of 'Grund' (basis/foundation) and 'Gedanke' (thought/idea). Here, 'Grund' means 'basis' or 'foundation.' The 'Grundgedanke' (basic idea) is therefore the fundamental idea on which everything else is built.
Der Grundgedanke der Demokratie ist die Herrschaft des Volkes.
The basic idea of democracy is the rule of the people.
The 'Grundgedanke' (basic idea) is often explained with a subordinate clause using 'dass' (that) or an infinitive construction with 'zu' (to). The structure is then: 'Der Grundgedanke ist, dass...' (The basic idea is that...) or 'Der Grundgedanke ist, ... zu ...' (The basic idea is to...).
Der Grundgedanke der neuen App ist, Menschen mit gleichen Interessen zu verbinden.
The basic idea of the new app is to connect people with similar interests.
'Grundgedanke' (basic idea) is often used with the preposition 'hinter' (behind) or 'von' (of) to specify what it is the core idea of. Examples are 'der Grundgedanke hinter einem Plan' (the basic idea behind a plan) or 'der Grundgedanke eines Buches' (the basic idea of a book).
Was ist der Grundgedanke hinter dieser neuen Strategie?
What is the basic idea behind this new strategy?
main topic
Hauptthema primarily refers to the most important subject of a work or conversation. Grundgedanke, by contrast, refers to the fundamental idea on which everything is based and which guides it in terms of content. In a work, the two can be closely related, but they emphasize different aspects.
Der Grundgedanke des Romans ist, dass Heimat durch menschliche Beziehungen entsteht.
The basic idea of the novel is that a sense of home arises through human relationships.
Das Hauptthema des Romans ist das Leben einer Familie auf der Flucht.
The main theme of the novel is the life of a family on the run.
