a main priority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a main priority" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing something that is of significant importance or urgency in a particular context. Example: "Ensuring customer satisfaction is a main priority for our company this quarter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

Such a ban is a main priority of the ministers council.

The New York Times

Ensuring that the KLA keeps its word and cooperates will be a main priority for Kfor.

The Guardian

Almost half (48%) said reducing fees should be a main priority for their universities' financial planners.

The Guardian

If a main priority in the years ahead is governance of the eurozone, then that needs a bit more federalising".

The Guardian

Exploratory work on how to increase the early diagnosis of cancer patients had been a main priority, said Palmer.

The Guardian

Ensuring all school leavers are numerate and confident with everyday maths should be a main priority in education.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

As a founder or someone working in a startup, the main priority is always staying alive.

TechCrunch

No matter what your circumstances are, it's a bad idea to wear stiff, noisy and scratchy clothing, as a ninja your main priority is remaining undetected.

WikiHow

You open your eyes and watch him Get Very Into This Song in a very intense way, sitting there in his zebra-print bootcut jeans and pristine trainers, and amongst fleeting wishes of home, of your own bed and a radiator that you know how to work and a shower that doesn't resemble a dribbling baby, your main priority is escape.

Vice

To be sure, a mayor would have to pick a few main priorities from this crowded list.

The New York Times

"In fact, just last year we created a fellowship position whose main priority is to assist our reporters on litigating F.O.I.A. cases".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a main priority", ensure the context clearly defines who or what organization considers it a priority. For instance, specify whose priority it is: "For the government, economic growth is a main priority."

Common error

Avoid using "a main priority" without specifying the specific scope or time frame it applies to. Instead of saying "Sustainability is a main priority", clarify "Sustainability is a main priority for our company's next five-year plan".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a main priority" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as a predicate nominative or object complement. It identifies something as being of primary importance. Ludwig examples confirm its use in various contexts, highlighting its versatility and widespread application. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

23%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a main priority" is a common and grammatically sound way to express the high importance of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, most frequently appearing in News & Media, Science, and Academic sources. When using the phrase, be sure to clearly define the scope and context to avoid vagueness. Alternatives like "a top priority" or "a key objective" can offer nuanced variations in meaning. Remember, while "priority" implies importance, adding "main" serves to further emphasize its significance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a top concern

Emphasizes worry or anxiety about a matter.

a prime focus

Highlights direct and immediate attention.

a central goal

Focuses specifically on the desired outcome or achievement.

a key objective

Highlights a measurable and strategic target.

a major aim

Highlights the intention or purpose.

a leading task

Focuses on the work that needs to be done.

a critical need

Emphasizes urgency and necessity.

a pressing issue

Highlights a problem that requires immediate attention.

a chief responsibility

Highlights an obligation or duty.

a significant matter

Points out importance and consequence.

FAQs

How can I use "a main priority" in a sentence?

You can use "a main priority" to emphasize the importance of something. For instance, "Ensuring customer satisfaction is "a main priority" for our company", or "Reducing carbon emissions is "a main priority" for the government".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "a main priority"?

Alternatives include "a top priority", "a key objective", or "a prime focus". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "main priority" since priority already implies importance?

While "priority" inherently suggests importance, using "main" can emphasize that it is one of the most important things to consider. It clarifies that it stands out among other priorities. Whether it's redundant depends on the need for added emphasis.

Which is correct, "a main priority" or "the main priority"?

Both are correct, but they imply slightly different meanings. "A main priority" suggests one among several priorities, while "the main priority" indicates the single most important thing. The choice depends on whether you are highlighting one of many important factors or identifying the single most crucial one.