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primary

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˈpraɪ.mə.ri/

KK: /ˈpraɪˌmɛri/

adjective
Definition

Relating to something that is first in importance, order, or rank.


Example

The primary goal of the project is to improve community health.


Conversation
Sloth A
What do you think is the primary reason people choose to study abroad?
Sloth B
I believe it's mostly for the experience and to learn about different cultures.
Sloth A
That makes sense, but I think the primary motivation is often to improve language skills.
Sloth B
Absolutely! Being immersed in a language really helps with fluency.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
main
chief
principal
Antonyms
secondary
minor
subordinate
noun
Definition

A meeting where members of a political party vote to choose candidates for an election or to select delegates for a convention.


Example

The primary will determine which candidates will run in the general election.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear about the upcoming primary election next month?
Sloth B
Yeah, I heard it's going to be a big deal for our party.
Sloth A
I'm planning to vote, but I need to learn more about the candidates in the primary.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Primary → It is formed from "primus" (meaning first) and the suffix "-ary" (meaning relating to or connected with). The word "primary" refers to something that is first in importance or order.

Memory Tip

Think of 'first' ('primus') when you remember that 'primary' means something that is of first importance.

Visually Confused Words
diprimary
subprimary
preprimary
spermary
premarry
partiary
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Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
preliminary
initial
main
Antonyms
secondary
minor
subordinate