priority

American  

[prahy-awr-i-tee, -or-] / praɪˈɔr ɪ ti, -ˈɒr- /

noun

plural

priorities

1. the state or quality of being earlier in time, occurrence, etc.

2. the right to precede others in order, rank, privilege, etc.; precedence.

3. the right to take precedence in obtaining certain supplies, services, facilities, etc., especially during a shortage.

4. something given special attention.

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adjective

1. highest or higher in importance, rank, privilege, etc..

   a priority task.

priority British  

/ praɪˈɒrɪtɪ /

noun

1. the condition of being prior; antecedence; precedence

2. the right of precedence over others

3. something given specified attention

   my first priority

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Other Word Forms

• nonpriority adjective

Etymology

Origin of priority

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English, from Middle French priorite, from Medieval Latin priōritās; prior ¹, -ity

Example Sentences

How monetary-policy makers tackle the matter depends on domestic priorities, and on how long they think the price volatility will last.

From The Wall Street Journal

"The economy is now the public's top priority."

From Barron's

In a world of limited resources, many state education departments are trading one requirement for the other as they give priority to the practical over the conceptual.

From The Wall Street Journal

Banks providing these arrangements want to see diversification in the borrower’s holdings, which is a top priority.

From The Wall Street Journal

"The safety of our customers and staff remains our absolute priority, and while we have limited platforms and access points to the station available, we will operate as many services as we can," he added.

From BBC

Related Words

• arrangement
• preference