Priority

Definition

The term "priority" describes the state of being more important or urgent than other things, requiring attention or action first.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /praɪˈɔːr.ə.ti/ or /praɪˈɑːr.ə.ti/
• Respelling: prye-OR-uh-tee or prye-AHR-uh-tee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /praɪˈɒr.ɪ.ti/
• Respelling: prye-OR-i-tee

Etymology

The word "priority" originates from the Latin "prioritas," meaning "precedence" or "fact of being earlier," derived from "prior," meaning "former" or "first." It entered Middle English in the 14th century.

Derivatives

• Prioritize (verb)
• Prioritization (noun)
• Prior (adjective, noun)
• Reprioritize (verb)
• Priority-based (adjective)

Synonyms

• Precedence
• Importance
• Urgency

Antonyms

• Inferiority
• Neglect
• Triviality

Usage

The term "priority" is commonly used in management, planning, and daily life. For example: "Safety is our top priority," or "You need to set your priorities before starting the project."

Related Terms

• Urgency: The need for immediate attention.
• Hierarchy: A system of ranking or organizing by importance.
• Importance: The quality of being significant or valuable.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The state of being more important than others: Refers to tasks, actions, or things requiring immediate attention.
  • Example: "Completing the project on time is our main priority."
• A thing that is regarded as more important: Refers to specific items or objectives that are ranked higher in importance.
  • Example: "Health should always be a top priority."
• Precedence in order or rank: Refers to the act of being first in sequence or importance.
  • Example: "Emergency vehicles have priority on the road."