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Synonyms

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.


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

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

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

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

The owner says he wants to win but also says winning does not rank among the top-five fan priorities.

From Los Angeles Times

Some schools receive more applications than they have places available, with priority given to those who meet published admissions arrangements.

From BBC

"Each family has different values and priorities. Some people, particularly those planning ahead for their own funeral, are looking for options that feel more aligned to their own preferences."

From BBC

"In the past it was not considered a priority to secure your operations in quite the same way as it is now," she points out.

From BBC

However, they do provide a rare glimpse into the party's priorities on matters ranging from the economy to defence and foreign policy.

From Barron's