It's often used to describe the foundational skills or knowledge needed to learn something more complex. Here are some examples:
* "She learned the rudiments of French grammar." This means she learned the basic rules and structures of French grammar.
* "He is still learning the rudiments of his trade." This means he is still learning the fundamental skills and techniques of his profession.
Other words that are similar in meaning to "rudiments" include:
* Basics
* Fundamentals
* Essentials
* Foundations
* ABCs