paramount
Say it: PAIR-uh-mownt /ˈpærəmaʊnt/ · adjective
What “paramount” means
More important than anything else.
Example: “When lifting heavy, good form is paramount.”
When to use it
In serious or formal discussions, when one concern must come before every other consideration.
Memory trick
Picture one priority on the highest mountain, above everything else.
Similar words
supreme, foremost, chief
Where it comes from
From Anglo-Norman paramont, "above."
Quick check
A climbing instructor says safety must come before speed, comfort or reaching the top. In this situation, safety is…
paramount or preferable?
Show the answer
paramount
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