above all else

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "above all else" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to emphasize the most important or fundamental aspect of something; for example, "Above all else, I value honesty in my relationships."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He values his art above all else.

The New York Times

She believed in art above all else.

Huffington Post

To be authentic above all else.

Huffington Post

Taste above all else, right?

The New Yorker

Be enthusiastic above all else.

The Guardian - Money

Above all else, show passion.

The Guardian

Above all else, Murph was an inspiration.

The New York Times

Sports success above all else, remember!

The New York Times - Sports

It favored rhythmic innovation above all else.

The New York Times - Arts

Above all else, there is Mourinho himself.

The New York Times - Sports

America favours African stability above all else.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "above all else" to clearly signal the single most important consideration in a given context. It helps to focus the reader's attention on the key takeaway.

Common error

Avoid using "above all else" multiple times in the same paragraph or short piece of writing. Overuse can dilute its impact and make your writing sound repetitive. Choose the most critical point to emphasize.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "above all else" functions as an adverbial phrase. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It modifies a verb or clause to emphasize the paramount importance of a particular action, quality, or consideration, directing the reader's focus to what matters most.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

18%

Science

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "above all else" is a versatile and grammatically sound adverbial phrase used to emphasize the utmost importance of something. Ludwig AI validates its proper usage. It is very commonly found in news, media and informal contents (Wikis). To improve your writing, remember that while the phrase is useful, avoid redundancy by using it sparingly. Consider alternatives like "most importantly" or "primarily" for similar emphasis. The phrase is suitable for neutral to formal writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

most importantly

This alternative places emphasis on the chief importance of something.

primarily

This focuses on what comes first in order of significance.

chiefly

This highlights the main or principal element.

principally

This underscores the leading aspect or factor.

before anything else

This indicates precedence over all other considerations.

first and foremost

This emphasizes the initial and primary concern.

more than anything

This suggests a higher value or preference compared to other things.

in the first place

This highlights the initial order of importance.

to begin with

This emphasizes the starting point or priority.

essentially

This denotes the fundamental nature or core aspect.

FAQs

How can I use "above all else" in a sentence?

Use "above all else" to emphasize the most important thing. For example, "Above all else, remember to be kind."

What phrases are similar to "above all else"?

You can use alternatives like "most importantly", "primarily", or "first and foremost" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it correct to say "most of all" instead of "above all else"?

While "most of all" can sometimes be used similarly, "above all else" often carries a stronger emphasis on priority or necessity.

What is the nuance between "before anything else" and "above all else"?

"Before anything else" suggests a temporal priority (something must be done first), while "above all else" indicates a higher value or importance.