generally / fundamental
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generally
Expresses that something applies in principle, in general, or in most cases, even if there may be exceptions.
Grundsätzlich bin ich mit deinem Vorschlag einverstanden, aber wir müssen noch über die Details sprechen.
Generally, I agree with your proposal, but we still need to talk about the details.
fundamental
Describes something that concerns the foundation or the essential principles; fundamental.
Das Recht auf freie Meinungsäußerung ist eine grundsätzliche Frage in einer Demokratie.
The right to free expression is a fundamental issue in a democracy.
The word is made up of 'Grund' (ground/basis) and 'Satz' (sentence/principle). It describes something that relates to a 'Grundsatz' (basic principle). The ending '-lich' makes it an adjective or adverb.
Wir brauchen eine grundsätzliche Debatte über die Zukunft unserer Stadt.
We need a fundamental debate about the future of our city.
'Grundsätzlich' can modify a whole statement as an adverb or describe a noun as an adjective. As an adverb, it means 'in general'; as an adjective, it means 'fundamental'.
Grundsätzlich stimme ich dir zu.
Generally, I agree with you.
When 'grundsätzlich' (generally) stands at the beginning of a sentence, it often introduces a general statement that is followed by a limitation with 'aber' (but). In this position, in slot 1, the verb follows directly after it.
Grundsätzlich fahre ich gern mit dem Zug, aber heute nehme ich das Auto.
Generally, I like taking the train, but today I'm taking the car.
As an adjective, 'grundsätzlich' (fundamental) is often used with abstract nouns such as 'Frage' (question/issue), 'Problem' (problem), 'Entscheidung' (decision), 'Unterschied' (difference), or 'Kritik' (criticism).
Die Finanzierung ist ein grundsätzliches Problem des Projekts.
The financing is a fundamental problem for the project.
always
Immer indicates a rule without exceptions. Grundsätzlich, by contrast, describes what is intended in general or according to the applicable principle, but leaves possible exceptions open. If every case is really meant to be covered, immer is the right choice; for a rule with exceptions, use grundsätzlich.
Bei der Führung müssen Besucher grundsätzlich eine Schutzbrille tragen, dürfen sie aber im Pausenraum abnehmen.
Visitors must generally wear safety goggles during the tour, but they may take them off in the break room.
Bei der Führung müssen Besucher immer eine Schutzbrille tragen.
Visitors must always wear safety goggles during the tour.
