first and main priority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "first and main priority" is somewhat redundant but can be used in written English.
It can be used when emphasizing the most important task or goal among others. Example: "Our first and main priority is to ensure the safety of all employees during the construction process."

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"This was the first and main priority to come back.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Our first main priority is to improve the customer experience.

BBC

The third main priority in this region, according to Daccord, is Afghanistan.

Forbes

"Every day Philip always comes first, and he's my main priority," she said.

BBC

"When I first came here my main priority was to get in the T20 or one-day team.

BBC

Nick noted: "We're family first and that's always been our main priority and so honesty within what we do as a group was really important".

Los Angeles Times

And the main priority is just trying to keep doubles off your card".

BBC

ReprintsUntil the second world war the main priority of the subject lay in establishing who made what and, if possible, when.

The Economist

His wife has said she wants to make fighting hate and bullying her main priority as first lady.

The Washington Post

For most of the bills in the package, "jobs are a second- or third-order effect, not the main priority".

Huffington Post

I had a family to support and that was far and away my main priority.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "first and main priority", consider whether the word "first" is necessary. Often, "main priority" is sufficient to convey the intended meaning. Using concise language will improve clarity.

Common error

Avoid using phrases like "first and main priority" when a single, stronger word or phrase, such as "top priority", conveys the message more effectively. This enhances the impact of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "first and main priority" functions as a noun phrase identifying the most important task or goal. While Ludwig AI indicates it is acceptable, the phrase's redundancy can reduce clarity. It often acts as a predicate nominative or object complement, defining what holds the highest importance.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "first and main priority" is used to emphasize the utmost importance of a task or goal. However, it's worth noting that Ludwig AI identifies the phrase as acceptable but potentially redundant. Alternatives like "top priority" or "primary focus" often provide a more concise and impactful way to convey the same message. While grammatical, opting for simpler language can enhance clarity, particularly in professional and formal contexts. Analysis of example sentences reveals that it's most often found in news and media.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Top priority

More concise way of expressing the most important thing.

Main focus

Highlights the central area of attention.

Primary concern

Focuses on the main worry or issue needing attention.

Foremost priority

Emphasizes the idea of something coming before everything else.

Number one priority

Emphasizes ranking above all others.

Chief priority

Highlights the main or leading importance of something.

Principal objective

Focuses on the primary goal to be achieved.

Key focus

Highlights the central point of attention or effort.

Most important thing

States directly that something is of the highest importance.

Central aim

Emphasizes the core purpose or intention.

FAQs

What does "first and main priority" mean?

The phrase "first and main priority" means the most important thing to deal with, the thing that must be done or taken care of before anything else. It's often used to emphasize the significance of a particular task or goal.

Is "first and main priority" redundant?

Yes, the phrase "first and main priority" can be considered somewhat redundant. The word "first" implies precedence, while "main" also suggests primary importance. Using just "top priority" often suffices.

What are some alternatives to "first and main priority"?

Some alternatives include "top priority", "primary focus", or "chief concern". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

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

You can use "first and main priority" like this: "Our first and main priority is ensuring the safety of our employees." However, consider if a simpler alternative like "top priority" would be more effective.