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Synonyms for

Primary

Adjective / ˈpraɪˌmeri: / Another word for primary — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

First in importance; main.

Synonyms & similar words

principal secondary basal primaryquill primaryfeather primaryelection elementary elemental primarywinding chief master primarycoil main main principal chief leading major central foremost first key fundamental essential crucial paramount dominant overriding prevailing prevalent predominant pivotal

Synonyms by register

Formal

principal chief main foremost

Informal

first number one top key

Literary

arch primeval original

Antonyms

secondary minor subordinate unimportant auxiliary inferior

Common collocations

  • primary school
  • primary color
  • primary source
  • primary election
  • primary care
  • primary objective
  • primary function

Word family

noun primacy
adverb primarily

Usage note

Often used to denote importance or order. Can also refer to the first stage of education, as in 'primary school'.

Compare "primary" with another word →

Example sentences

  1. My primary goal is to finish my homework before dinner.
  2. The primary colors are red, blue, and yellow.
  3. The primary function of a car is to transport people from one place to another.
  4. In the United States, the primary election is held before the general election.
  5. The primary source of energy for our bodies is food.

Quotes

  • Education is the key to success in life, and teachers make a lasting impact in the lives of their students. - Solomon Ortiz
  • The primary goal of a leader should be to make themselves unnecessary. - Simon Sinek
  • The primary cause of unhappiness is never the situation but your thoughts about it. - Eckhart Tolle

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