Is prioritize formal or informal?

It is neutral and common in work, study, and everyday planning.

What is the difference between prioritize and prefer?

Prefer means you like one thing more. Prioritize means you choose it first because it matters more now.

How do I use prioritize with a noun?

Use prioritize + noun, like "prioritize tasks" or "prioritize health."

Is prioritize common in IELTS and business writing?

Yes. It is very common in academic, business, and workplace English.

← Dictionary

prioritize

/praɪˈɒr.ɪ.taɪz/

IELTSAcademic

verb

To decide that one thing is more important than others, so you do it first. It can also mean to rank things in order of importance.

I prioritize urgent emails in the morning.
We need to prioritize safety.
She prioritizes family over work.

Adinary Nuance

Prioritize is stronger and more deliberate than "prefer." You prioritize when you must choose what gets time, money, or attention first. It is often used in work, study, and planning, where many tasks compete for attention.

In other languages

Vietnamese: ưu tiên
Spanish: priorizar
Chinese: 优先处理
Japanese: 優先する
Korean: 우선순위를 정하다

Etymology

Prioritize was formed in English from prior and the suffix -ize. It became common in the 20th century, especially in business and planning.

Common phrases

prioritize tasksprioritize safetyprioritize spendingprioritize needs

Synonyms

rank order focus on emphasize

Related words

priority urgent allocate schedule

Frequently asked questions

Is prioritize formal or informal?: It is neutral and common in work, study, and everyday planning.
What is the difference between prioritize and prefer?: Prefer means you like one thing more. Prioritize means you choose it first because it matters more now.
How do I use prioritize with a noun?: Use prioritize + noun, like "prioritize tasks" or "prioritize health."
Is prioritize common in IELTS and business writing?: Yes. It is very common in academic, business, and workplace English.