Word: primacy (noun)

Associations

"Primacy" means the state of being first in importance, rank, or position.

• In history, "the primacy of the Roman Empire" means it was the most important power at that time.
• In a meeting, "She was given primacy in the discussion" means her opinions were considered most important.
• In science, "the primacy of evidence over opinion" means evidence is more important than personal views.

A well-known synonym is "priority." The difference:

• "Primacy" often refers to importance or rank in a formal or official sense.
• "Priority" means something is more urgent or should be done first.

Use "primacy" when talking about importance or rank, especially in formal or abstract ideas.

Substitution

You can replace "primacy" with:

• "supremacy" (stronger, more about power or control)
• "dominance" (focuses on control or influence)
• "priority" (focuses on what should come first or be done first) These changes can make the meaning stronger or more about action rather than just importance.

Deconstruction

"Primacy" comes from the Latin word "primus," meaning "first."

• The root "prim-" means "first."
• The suffix "-acy" turns an adjective or root into a noun showing a state or condition. So "primacy" literally means "the state of being first."

Inquiry

• Can you think of a situation where someone or something has primacy in your life or work?
• How does primacy differ from just being first in time? Is it only about order or also importance?
• When would you use "primacy" instead of "priority" in a sentence? Why?