The phrase first priority is common in business, academics, and everyday conversations. However, some people argue that it is redundant because priority originally meant “the first or highest importance.” Today, modern English accepts first priority as a natural expression that emphasizes what matters most.
If you’ve ever wondered whether to write first priority or simply priority, this guide explains the difference, grammar rules, examples, common mistakes, and style tips to help you use the phrase correctly.
Quick Answer
First priority is grammatically correct and widely accepted in modern English. While some style guides consider it redundant because priority already implies highest importance, using first priority for emphasis is common in both spoken and written English.
Why People Confuse It
People often debate this phrase because:
- Priority originally meant first in importance.
- Some grammar enthusiasts consider first priority repetitive.
- Modern dictionaries accept the phrase.
- It appears frequently in business, education, and government writing.
- Many style guides now recognize it as standard usage.
The key point is that first priority is acceptable, especially when you want to emphasize the most important task.
What Does “First Priority” Mean?
First priority means the most important task, goal, or concern that should be addressed before anything else.
It emphasizes that something deserves immediate attention.
Examples of “First Priority”
- Customer safety is our first priority.
- Your health should be your first priority.
- Completing the project is our first priority.
- Employee well-being remains the company’s first priority.
- My first priority is finishing my studies.
- Public safety is the government’s first priority.
- Quality is our first priority.
- The team’s first priority is winning the championship.
- Her first priority is spending time with her family.
- Security should always be your first priority.
Is “Priority” Enough?
Yes. In many situations, simply using priority is concise and equally correct.
For example:
- Safety is our priority.
- Customer satisfaction remains our top priority.
- Education is a national priority.
Using priority alone is often preferred in formal writing when emphasis isn’t necessary.
First Priority vs. Priority Comparison
| Feature | First Priority | Priority |
|---|---|---|
| Grammar | Correct | Correct |
| Meaning | Highest or most important priority | Something important |
| Emphasis | Stronger | More neutral |
| Formal Writing | Acceptable | Often preferred for conciseness |
| Example | Safety is our first priority. | Safety is our priority. |
When to Use Each
Use first priority when:
- Emphasizing the most important task.
- Writing speeches or marketing content.
- Communicating urgency or focus.
Use priority when:
- Writing concise or formal content.
- Referring to something important without extra emphasis.
- Avoiding unnecessary repetition.
Examples (10+)
- Our first priority is customer satisfaction.
- Safety should always be your first priority.
- The company made employee welfare its first priority.
- My first priority is completing this assignment.
- Public health became the nation’s first priority.
- Education remains a government priority.
- Environmental protection is an important priority.
- Time management should be every student’s priority.
- Finding a solution became the team’s first priority.
- Financial stability is our family’s first priority.
- Innovation is a key business priority.
- The rescue mission was the firefighters’ first priority.
Common Mistakes
❌ My priority is first.
✅ My first priority is finishing the project.
❌ Safety is the priority first.
✅ Safety is the first priority.
❌ Customer service is our number one first priority.
✅ Customer service is our top priority or first priority.
❌ This is my main first priority.
✅ This is my first priority.
❌ Education is my priority number first.
✅ Education is my first priority.
Memory Trick
Remember:
- Priority = Something important
- First priority = The most important thing
If you want to add emphasis, first priority is perfectly acceptable.
American vs. British English
There is no major difference between American and British English.
Both varieties commonly use:
- First priority
- Top priority
- Highest priority
In formal writing, many editors simply prefer priority or top priority for conciseness.
Similar Words
Other related expressions include:
- Top priority
- Highest priority
- Main concern
- Primary objective
- Chief goal
- Key focus
- Main priority
- Primary concern
Final Verdict
First priority is correct and widely used in modern English. Although some traditional style experts view it as redundant, it has become a standard expression for emphasizing the most important task or concern. In formal writing, you may choose priority or top priority for a more concise style, but first priority is not considered a grammar mistake.
Remember This
Priority = Important
First Priority = Most Important
Use first priority when you want extra emphasis, and priority when a shorter expression is enough.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is “first priority” grammatically correct?
Yes. It is widely accepted in modern English.
Is “first priority” redundant?
Some style experts consider it redundant because priority originally meant first in importance, but modern usage accepts it.
Which is better: “first priority” or “top priority”?
Both are correct. Top priority is often preferred in business writing.
Can I just say “priority”?
Yes. In many contexts, priority alone is clear and concise.
Is “main priority” correct?
Yes, although some editors also view it as slightly redundant.
Do American and British English use “first priority”?
Yes. It is common in both varieties.
Conclusion
The phrase first priority is a standard and widely accepted part of modern English. While its historical meaning makes some people view it as repetitive, today’s speakers and writers regularly use it to emphasize the most important task or responsibility.
If you’re writing formally and prefer a concise style, priority or top priority may be better choices. However, if your goal is to stress urgency or importance, first priority is perfectly natural and grammatically correct.
