priority lies with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "priority lies with" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is of higher importance or focus compared to other things. Example: "In this project, the priority lies with meeting the deadlines to ensure timely delivery."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"If Toulon manage to get through to the final of the Top 14 my absolute priority lies with them," the 33-year-old outside-half told The Times.  .

BBC

Donning a gray Princeton Tigers shirt to represent her alma mater, Obama told the audience that though she may not be first lady anymore, her priority lies with education. .

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Gaskell's priorities lay with storytelling.

The Guardian - Books

Their priorities lie with serving Bristol, not with serving themselves," Mr Ferguson added.

BBC

Councillor Christopher Towe, portfolio holder for finance, said "tough decisions lie ahead" but the council's priorities lie with helping businesses to create jobs, promoting good health, providing safe environments and supporting children.

BBC

In the meantime our priorities lie with providing as much support and assistance as we can to all the players and staff who are currently employed by the club".

BBC

"In this disaster, my priority lies in saving lives," he said at a news conference.

The New York Times

That's where her priority lay.

The New York Times

Some he spoke at; but his first priority lay elsewhere.

The Economist

However, with the possible long-term genetic effects arising from such strategies, some argue that the priority should lie with habitat restoration [66].

Plosone

In view of all the challenges that face a new president, that George W. Bush's priorities lie primarily with those of immense wealth tells us that perhaps this is simply part of his "debt" to those who helped put him in office.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "priority lies with", ensure that the subject clearly identifies who or what holds the primary responsibility or focus. This helps avoid ambiguity and strengthens the sentence's clarity.

Common error

Avoid vagueness by clearly stating who or what the "priority lies with". For example, instead of "Priority lies with the project", specify "The project's priority lies with meeting deadlines".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "priority lies with" functions as a statement indicating where the primary focus, responsibility, or importance is directed. It asserts that a particular person, entity, or objective should receive the most attention or effort, as confirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "priority lies with" is grammatically correct and serves to emphasize the importance of a particular focus, responsibility, or objective. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage. While relatively rare, the phrase appears primarily in news and media, reflecting its function in clarifying priorities within discussions and decision-making. To ensure clarity, avoid vagueness by explicitly stating who or what holds the priority. Alternative phrases such as "main focus is on" or "chief responsibility rests with" can be used to convey similar meanings. Finally, the analyzed phrase has a neutral register.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

main focus is on

This alternative emphasizes the central point of attention or effort.

primary concern is

This alternative highlights the chief worry or matter of interest.

chief responsibility rests with

This alternative indicates where the main accountability is placed.

greatest importance is attached to

This alternative stresses the significant value given to something.

the onus is on

This alternative indicates a duty or responsibility falls on someone.

the buck stops here

This alternative shows a willingness to take responsibility.

central aim is

This alternative underscores the principal goal or objective.

foremost consideration is

This alternative suggests the top-ranking factor to be taken into account.

main emphasis is on

This alternative highlights what is given the most weight or prominence.

key objective is

This alternative underlines the crucial target to be achieved.

FAQs

What does "priority lies with" mean?

The phrase "priority lies with" means that something is the most important thing that needs attention or action. It indicates where the main focus or responsibility should be.

How can I use "priority lies with" in a sentence?

You can use "priority lies with" to emphasize the importance of a particular task, person, or goal. For example, "In this situation, the "priority lies with ensuring safety"".

Are there alternatives to saying "priority lies with"?

Yes, you can use alternatives like "main focus is on", "primary concern is", or "chief responsibility rests with" depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "priority lie with"?

No, the correct phrase is "priority lies with". "Lies" is the third-person singular present tense form of the verb "to lie", which agrees with the singular noun "priority".