prime

[praɪm]

prime Definition

  • 1of the best possible quality; excellent
  • 2main or most important
  • 3a number that is divisible only by itself and 1, e.g. 2, 3, 5, 7, 11

Using prime: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "prime" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The restaurant serves prime cuts of beef.

  • Example

    The prime suspect in the robbery was arrested.

  • Example

    Education is of prime importance.

  • Example

    The number 7 is a prime number.

prime Synonyms and Antonyms

Idioms Using prime

  • in one's prime

    at the peak of one's physical or mental abilities

    Example

    She was a great athlete in her prime.

  • to stimulate economic activity by increasing the money supply or by government investment

    Example

    The government is planning to prime the pump with a new stimulus package.

  • the period of life when a person is at their best physically and mentally

    Example

    He died in the prime of life.

Phrases with prime

  • the time period when the largest audience is available to watch television or listen to radio

    Example

    The show airs during prime time on Saturday evenings.

  • the head of the government in some countries

    Example

    The Prime Minister will address the nation tonight.

  • a person or thing that initiates or drives a process or project

    Example

    He was the prime mover behind the new business venture.

Origins of prime

from Latin 'primus', meaning 'first'

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Summary: prime in Brief

The term 'prime' [praɪm] refers to something of the highest quality or importance, such as 'prime cuts of beef' or 'Education is of prime importance.' It can also refer to a number that is divisible only by itself and 1, like 2, 3, or 5. Phrases like 'prime time' and 'prime minister' denote the most important time or person, while idioms like 'in one's prime' and 'prime of life' refer to the peak of one's physical or mental abilities.

How do native speakers use this expression?