prioritize
UK: /praɪˈɒr.ɪ.taɪz/ | US: /praɪˈɔːr.ə.taɪz/
vt. to arrange or deal with in order of importance
vt. to designate something as more urgent or significant than others
vi. to assign priority to tasks or goals
The word "prioritize" combines "prior" (from Latin prior, meaning "earlier" or "first") with the verb-forming suffix "-ize" (from Greek -izein via Latin -izare). The root "prior" reflects the concept of precedence or higher importance, while "-ize" transforms it into an action, meaning "to make something a priority." The term emerged in the early 20th century, aligning with modern organizational and time-management practices.
Managers must prioritize tasks to meet deadlines efficiently.
She decided to prioritize her health over work commitments.
The software update will prioritize security fixes.
Students should prioritize studying for finals.
The government plans to prioritize infrastructure development this year.