Synonyms of first-line

first-line

adjective

ˈfərst-ˈlīn 

as in selected

singled out from a number or group as more to one's liking

surgery is usually not considered a first-line treatment for this type of cancer

Synonyms & Similar Words

• selected
• select
• favorite
• preferred
• favored
• chosen
• elect
• choice
• of choice
• handpicked
• picked
• fashionable
• cherry-picked
• exclusive
• screened
• weeded (out)
• picked over
• winnowed (out)
• culled

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• average
• common
• ordinary
• commonplace
• run-of-the-mill

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of first-line

But, obviously, marching band and first-line directors have been dealing with these issues since time memorial, so Byrne is innovating as part of a fine tradition. — Chris Willman, Variety, 2 Sep. 2026

Nearly a third of adults with major depressive disorder fail to respond to at least two antidepressants, and half of people treated for generalized anxiety disorder do not respond to first-line treatments, studies show. — Jen Christensen, CNN Money, 29 Aug. 2026

Access antibiotics are first-line treatments for common infections and should be widely available. — Peter Beyer, STAT, 18 Aug. 2026

The first-line treatment is trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, sold under the brand names Bactrim, Septra, or Cotrim. — Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 11 Aug. 2026