Priority Meaning

Priority

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. The state of being more important or urgent than other things, often requiring immediate attention or action.
2. Something that is considered more important or is given precedence over others.
3. The act of arranging or addressing things in order of importance.
4. A right or privilege that takes precedence over others, particularly in scheduling or decision-making.

History and Origin

The word “priority” comes from the Latin prioritas, meaning “precedence” or “superiority,” from prior, meaning “former” or “previous.” It first appeared in English in the 15th century to denote precedence or something regarded as more important. Over time, it expanded to include not only the order of importance but also the importance given to particular tasks, issues, or rights.

Detailed Explanation

“Priority” refers to the status or condition of being more important than something else, requiring quicker attention or action. In personal, professional, or societal contexts, priorities are determined by urgency, relevance, or the potential impact of addressing a specific task or need. It can refer to both time-sensitive matters (such as in emergency situations) and long-term goals or values (such as making family a priority). Often, priorities are determined based on resources, schedules, and individual or collective needs.

Example Sentences

1. The safety of the passengers was the top priority during the emergency.
2. The team set its priorities for the project to ensure the most important tasks were completed first.
3. Education should be a priority for any government.
4. She made her health a priority after the doctor’s recommendation.
5. The company’s priority is to enhance customer satisfaction.
6. The doctor emphasized the priority of treating life-threatening injuries first.
7. As a manager, he knew how to handle competing priorities and allocate resources efficiently.
8. The school has made improving infrastructure a priority in its budget planning.
9. Due to time constraints, finishing the report became the priority for the team.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Preference – The act of favoring something over other options, similar to giving it priority.
2. Urgency – The need for immediate action or attention, often associated with priority.
3. Precedence – The condition of being ranked higher or more important, often used in scheduling or decision-making.
4. Importance – The quality of being significant or valuable, often influencing what is prioritized.
5. Primacy – The state of being first in importance or rank, often used in the context of priorities.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Focus – The central point of attention or activity, often determined by what is prioritized.
2. Goal – An objective or target, which may be assigned priority in planning or decision-making.
3. Deadline – A time limit for completing tasks, often helping to determine priorities.
4. Strategy – A plan of action, which is often shaped by prioritizing key tasks or objectives.
5. Efficiency – The ability to achieve maximum productivity, often influenced by effectively managing priorities.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Preference – A choice or selection made based on prioritization of certain factors.
2. Hierarchy – A system where priorities are ranked based on their relative importance.
3. Emphasis – Special attention given to something, often because it has been deemed a priority.
4. Order – The arrangement or sequence of things, often established by prioritizing tasks or actions.
5. Significance – The quality of being important or noteworthy, influencing what is prioritized.

Antonyms

1. Neglect
2. Secondary
3. Insignificance
4. Unimportance
5. Postponement