In both professional and casual conversation, the phrase “first priority” tends to spark debate. Some feel it’s redundant, especially since a priority already carries the weight of urgency and importance. But having worked in structured writing and real-time planning, I’ve seen how people use it to express a clear order when outlining tasks or setting goals. Whether the item deserves attention first or not, the phrase becomes useful in helping others clarify what’s most immediate, even if some question if it’s correct.
As language evolves, so does our understanding of how to convey meaning, and this change occurs naturally over time.
The usage of this expression brings out subtle nuances often missed in strict grammar rules. In team environments where I’ve helped draft a report or led a meeting, choosing the right terms can confidently guide group action. Whether you’re chatting with peers or formalizing tasks, using familiar phrases can lead to better understanding. A well-placed expression can influence outcomes, especially when focus is limited and time is short. Despite debate, it’s less about being technically perfect and more about being effective and clear. That’s why the phrase remains a staple in everyday communication.
What “Priority” Really Means
Etymology and Origins
The word “priority” stems from the Latin term prioritas, meaning “fact or condition of being earlier.” It comes from prior – “former” or “preceding in time.”
In its original usage, priority was inherently singular. There could only be one most important thing.
“You cannot have multiple priorities. If you have more than one, you have none.” – Greg McKeown, Essentialism.
How Modern English Has Shifted the Meaning
Despite its singular origin, in modern usage, we regularly refer to multiple priorities, and it makes sense.
In a fast-paced, multitasking world, we juggle various obligations that feel equally critical. So we adapted the language. Now, “priorities” is accepted, and so is qualifying them further.
This is where phrases like “top priority” and “priority” came into play.
Is “First Priority” Redundant?
The Grammar Purist’s Viewpoint
Traditional grammarians argue that “priority” is a tautology, a repetition of the same idea. After all, if something is a priority, isn’t it already first?
While technically sound, this argument misses the nuance of emphasis and context.
Functional Redundancy: When Repetition Adds Clarity
Redundancy isn’t always bad. It often enhances clarity and emphasis, especially in spoken English.
Here’s what linguist Deborah Tannen says:
“Redundancy in speech often reflects how humans think. We repeat for impact, not out of ignorance.”
Using “priority” can serve as an intentional signal that something isn’t just a priority’s the highest and most immediate one.
When Is It Acceptable to Say “First Priority”?
Appropriate Situations
✅ Corporate Communication
Example:
“Client satisfaction remains our priority.”
✅ Emergency & Safety Contexts
Example:
“In any crisis, your safety is our priority.”
✅ Customer Service Policies
Example:
“Resolving your issue is our priority.”
Not Recommended In
❌ Academic Writing
❌ Legal Documents
❌ Technical Manuals
In formal documents, clarity and precision matter more than emotional emphasis. Use simpler, non-redundant alternatives there.
Clarity vs. Brevity: Striking the Right Balance
If your audience values precision (legal, academic), avoid phrases like “priority.” Instead, opt for:
- Primary Objective
- Chief Concern
- Main Focus
In marketing, customer service, or speech, however, rhetorical emphasis is not only accepted’s expected.
Common Misconceptions About “First Priority”
| Myth | Reality |
| “It’s grammatically incorrect.” | It’s not grammatically incorrect- just potentially redundant. |
| “There’s no such thing as ‘priority.’” | Language evolves; usage determines what’s acceptable in modern contexts. |
| “Using it makes you sound uneducated.” | Depends on the audience and tone. It can enhance clarity and empathy. |
Better Alternatives to “First Priority”
Sometimes, trimming redundancy makes your writing sharper and more powerful. Here are phrases that deliver the same message, with better precision:
Top Alternatives
- Top Priority – Most common and accepted
- Primary Focus – Slightly more formal
- Number One Concern – Emphasizes ranking
- Main Goal – Informal and goal-oriented
- Chief Objective – Professional and strategic
- Utmost Importance – Adds emotional weight
Use Case Table
| Alternative | Best Used In | Tone |
| Top Priority | Business, project planning | Professional |
| Primary Focus | Research, writing | Academic/Formal |
| Number-One Concern | Customer service | Empathetic |
| Chief Objective | Strategic planning, consulting | Executive |
| Utmost Importance | Safety, ethics, policy | Serious/Formal |
“Top Priority” vs “First Priority”: What’s the Difference?
While they’re often used interchangeably, there are subtle distinctions.
- Top Priority = Ranked above others in order of importance
- First Priority = Usually implies order of action or urgency
Example
- “Security is our top priority.” (Value ranking)
- “Evacuation is our priority.” (Sequence of action)
Understanding this difference allows you to choose the more suitable phrase for the moment.
How to Choose the Right Priority Phrase
Here’s a decision tree to help guide your word choice:
What is the purpose of the message?
→ Inform or instruct? → Use: Primary Focus / Chief Objective
→ Persuade or comfort? → Use: First Priority / Top Priority
What is the tone?
→ Formal? → Avoid redundancy.
→ Conversational or emotional? → Emphasis can help.
Cultural and Linguistic Variations
American English vs. British English
In American English, emphasis is often used to convey urgency or a customer-oriented approach. “Priority” is more commonly accepted here.
In British English, redundancy is more likely to be scrutinized, especially in writing.
“Clarity without clutter is a hallmark of British formal writing,” notes linguist David Crystal.
Business English in the US
American workplace communication prioritizes clarity and empathy, often accepting redundancy as a tool for emphasis.
- HR guidelines often use “priority” for emotional assurance
- Marketing copy uses it to position values
Case Study: Airline Industry
Airlines regularly use the phrase “priority” in their messaging. Why?
“The safety of our passengers is our priority.”
It’s about building trust. Customers don’t analyze grammatical purity- they respond to emotional clarity.
Other Examples
| Company | Phrase Used | Context |
| Southwest Airlines | “Your safety is our priority.” | In-flight announcements |
| Amazon | “Customer obsession is our priority.” | Corporate culture |
| FEMA | “Saving lives is our priority during a disaster.” | Crisis response |
Final Verdict: Is It Wrong to Say “First Priority”?
No, it’s not wrong. But…
- It can sound redundant in formal contexts
- It may be stylistically weak if overused
- Better alternatives exist, depending on context
Use it when:
✔ Emphasizing urgency
✔ Addressing emotionally sensitive topics
✔ Writing in a customer-focused tone
Avoid it when:
✘ Writing technical documentation
✘ Creating formal academic content
✘ Striving for word economy
Quick Reference: Do’s and Don’ts of “First Priority”
| Do | Don’t |
| Use it to convey urgency in a conversational tone | Use in highly technical or legal documentation |
| Replace it with “top priority” when the ranking is clearer | Overuse redundancy when simpler terms suffice |
| Evaluate audience expectations and tone | Assume it’s always wrong based on traditional rules |
Key Takeaways
- “Priority” isn’t grammatically incorrect, but it may be stylistically unnecessary in certain contexts.
- Language evolves with usage- what once was redundant is now often accepted, especially in business and customer communication.
- Consider your audience, tone, and goals when choosing between “priority,” “top priority,” or other alternatives.
- Redundancy can be a tool when used intentionally and sparingly.
- Clarity always comes first- ironically, that should be your priority.
Additional Resources
- Merriam-Webster Dictionary: Priority
- Grammarly Guide to Redundancy
- Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown
Final Thoughts
Language isn’t static- it shifts with how people use it. While “priority” may strike some as redundant, it’s often used to emphasize urgency, signal importance, or resonate emotionally with the audience.
The key to using it well is understanding your intent and your audience. In casual speech or customer-facing content, it works just fine. In academic or technical writing, sharper alternatives may serve you better.
Ultimately, your real priority should always be clear communication. That means choosing words that not only say what you mean but also feel right to the person reading or hearing them.
FAQs
Is “first priority” grammatically correct?
Yes, it is grammatically acceptable. While some consider it redundant because “priority” implies the first or most important thing, in practice, the phrase is often used to emphasize urgency or sequence.
What is a better alternative to “first priority”?
“Top priority” is the most widely accepted and preferred alternative, especially in professional and business communication. Other strong alternatives include:
- Primary concern
- Chief objective
- Utmost importance
- Number-one task
Is “first priority” used in professional communication?
Yes, especially in customer service, healthcare, corporate mission statements, and emergency protocols. It’s commonly used to assure readers or listeners of what matters most in that context.
Can I use “first priority” in academic writing?
It’s best to avoid it in academic, legal, or technical writing where precision and conciseness matter more. Opt for terms like primary focus or chief concern instead.
Why do companies still use “first priority” if it’s redundant?
Because it works, in marketing and communication, clarity and emotional resonance often outweigh grammatical purity. Phrases like “Your safety is our priority” are more impactful and memorable to readers or customers.
