prioritize

verb

pri·​or·​i·​tize prī-ˈȯr-ə-ˌtīz 

-ˈär-;

ˈprī-ə-rə-

prioritized; prioritizing

transitive verb

: to list or rate (projects, goals, etc.) in order of priority

prioritization

prī-ˌȯr-ə-tə-ˈzā-shən 

-är-;

ˌprī-ə-rə-

noun

Examples of prioritize in a Sentence

It's always difficult to prioritize work, school, and family.

If you want to do your job efficiently, you have to learn to prioritize.

The town council hopes to prioritize the bridge construction project at the next meeting.

Recent Examples on the Web

In an interview, Vance had said Christian teachings advocate for prioritizing love, first for family, then neighbors, community, fellow citizens, and lastly, the world. —Rhona Tarrant, CBS News, 9 May 2025

Researchers advise parents to prioritize safety features and driver assistance technologies in the vehicle their teen drives. —Kris Ann Valdez, Parents, 8 May 2025

According to Malaspina, both brands’ strategy of betting on the niche route rather than big chains operating locally hinges on their prioritizing an effective customer experience and ensuring their storytelling is delivered in the right way. —Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 8 May 2025

Addressing this growing gap will require a shift in how organizations approach leadership development— prioritizing emotional intelligence, supporting mental health and adapting to new work structures. —Gyre Renwick, Forbes.com, 8 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1961, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for prioritize

• actualize
• antagonize
• apologise
• apologize
• capitalize
• categorize
• characterize
• commercialize
• conceptualize
• contrariwise
• criminalize
• decentralize