a question of priority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a question of priority" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the importance or urgency of certain tasks or issues in relation to others. Example: "In our meeting, we need to address a question of priority regarding the upcoming project deadlines."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

"It's all a question of priority".

The New York Times - Tech

It may be a question of priority setting".

The New York Times

"It was always a question of priority," a former Pentagon official recalled.

The New Yorker

It's a question of priority and user needs".

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

"It's a question of priorities.

Independent

It is a question of priorities".

The New York Times - Arts

This is a question of priorities and choices.

The New York Times

I suppose it boils down to a question of priorities.

The Guardian - Books

Library budgets are not simply a question of money; they are a question of priorities.

The New York Times

"It is a question of priorities in the face of the most fundamental of human needs.

The New York Times

But let's face it: It's a question of priorities.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a question of priority", clearly state what the competing priorities are to provide context for your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "a question of priority" when you simply mean something is important. The phrase implies a choice between multiple important things, not just a single item's significance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a question of priority" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object of a preposition. Ludwig AI confirms this usage. It indicates that the decision or issue being discussed hinges on which factor is deemed most important.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a question of priority" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe situations where a choice needs to be made based on the importance or urgency of different options. Ludwig AI underscores its appropriate usage in various contexts, particularly in news and media, highlighting its role in framing strategic decisions. While not exceedingly common, understanding the phrase's nuances, like differentiating it from simple importance, can enhance clarity and precision in writing and speech.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the main priority

This emphasizes the primary focus, making it clear what should be addressed first.

a matter of importance

This alternative emphasizes the significance of the issue, shifting the focus from selection to inherent value.

an issue of importance

Similar to "a matter of importance", this emphasizes the significance of the issue.

a matter of precedence

This highlights the order in which things should be done, rather than the decision-making process.

the paramount concern

This alternative stresses the supreme importance of the matter.

a matter of concern

This alternative suggests something that needs attention and resolution.

a central concern

Indicates that it's a major worry or focus.

a key consideration

This alternative focuses on an essential element to be taken into account during decision-making.

a critical factor

This phrase implies that the factor is essential for success.

a primary consideration

This phrase focuses on what should be thought about first.

FAQs

How can I use "a question of priority" in a sentence?

You can use "a question of priority" to indicate that a decision needs to be made about which thing is the most important. For example, "Deciding whether to invest in new equipment or additional staff is "a question of priority"."

What is a synonym for "a question of priority"?

Alternatives to "a question of priority" include "a matter of importance", "a key consideration", or "the main priority".

When is it appropriate to use "a question of priority"?

Use "a question of priority" when there are limited resources or time and a decision needs to be made about which task or goal should be addressed first. This often involves weighing the pros and cons of different options.

What's the difference between "a question of priority" and "a question of priorities"?

"A question of priority" refers to a single, overarching decision about what is most important. "A question of priorities" implies multiple, potentially conflicting, concerns that need to be balanced. Consider this example: "Resource allocation is always "a question of priorities"." versus "In disaster response, saving lives is "a question of priority"."