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

Then funding halted as the state had to prioritize worse leaks. —Ashley Miznazi, Miami Herald, 9 Apr. 2026

Stay informed, stay vigilant, and prioritize safety when enjoying the surf. —Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 8 Apr. 2026

Tanking has come into focus this season, with several teams clearly prioritizing their lottery odds over the desire to win games in the short term. —Jay King, New York Times, 8 Apr. 2026

Organizers said the selection process will prioritize filling gaps in the district’s current offerings while avoiding duplication. —Kansas City Star, 8 Apr. 2026

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