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

Their games prioritize pace and entertainment, with no bunting, no mound visits and (best of all) a two-hour time limit. —Dave Quinn, PEOPLE, 31 Dec. 2025

According to Breanna Seech, CFP at Mariner Wealth Advisors, her Gen Z clients are prioritizing investing over more traditional financial milestones. —Jasmin Suknanan, CNBC, 31 Dec. 2025

In general, bathroom design is predicted to follow the lead of many other areas of the home in 2026—prioritizing warmth, practicality, and timeless finishes. —Cori Sears, The Spruce, 31 Dec. 2025

When traveling during snow or freezing rain, prioritize safety by slowing down. —Bay Area Weather Report, Mercury News, 31 Dec. 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