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first things first

Idioms  
  1. The most important task gets priority, as in I very much wanted to see that movie, but first things first—the paper's due tomorrow. This adage was first recorded in 1545.


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

But first things first: It needs to catch up to the U.S.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 14, 2026

It’s first things first for the Rams, who are singularly focused on upsetting the Eagles on Sunday, with Philadelphia favored by six points at home.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 14, 2025

And, first things first, thank you for doing this.

From New York Times ● Apr. 3, 2024

Fant said he’s gotten “no indication” of Seattle’s plans, but for now is taking first things first.

From Seattle Times ● Apr. 5, 2022

“You’re an active young lady. We want to get you a leg that can keep up with you. But first things first, and that is to get you walking.”

From "The Running Dream" by Wendelin Van Draanen

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