Prioritize
verb /praɪˈɒrɪtaɪz/ — To decide what matters most and act accordingly.
Definition
To designate something as more important than other things; to give something priority.
Beyond the definition
Prioritize is a word for people who can't do everything — which is everyone. What you choose to prioritise reveals what you actually value, not just what you say you value. It's as much a word about choices as about tasks.
Origin & history
From Latin prior — first in order, ranking, or importance. Modern usage from 'priority', in widespread business use from the 1960s.
Example sentences
Illustrative sentences for learning, not verified community posts or sourced quotations.
You need to prioritize your tasks, not just list them.
She prioritized sleep during exam season, knowing it would make her sharper.
In a crisis, you prioritize safety over efficiency.
How to use it
This entry uses a verb. Follow the examples for tense and any objects or prepositions it needs.
Choose “Prioritize” when the meaning fits your context: To designate something as more important than other things; to give something priority.
Synonyms
rank, order, value, focus on, put first
Antonyms
neglect, deprioritize, overlook
Related words
Word in the Wild
See how this word appears in life, language and stories.
Illustrative sentences and imagined stories for learning — not verified sightings, interviews, or sourced quotations.
Fictional scene
Arranging Objects with Intent
An adult in a minimalist room is carefully arranging three simple objects on a wooden tray, creating a balanced, intentional composition.
By choosing exactly three objects and arranging them on a tray, the person is prioritizing their aesthetic value over other potential items. They have designated these specific elements as more important to create a unified, pleasing visual effect, giving them priority in the space.
Image credit: Wordspun · AI-generated conceptual illustration
Questions about this word
What does "Prioritize" mean?
Prioritize is verb meaning: To decide what matters most and act accordingly.. To designate something as more important than other things; to give something priority.
Where does the word "Prioritize" come from?
From Latin prior — first in order, ranking, or importance. Modern usage from 'priority', in widespread business use from the 1960s.