first things first

English

Alternative forms

Phrase

first things first

  1. Let's deal with matters of highest priority first; let's deal with matters in logical sequence. [19th c.]
    • 1830, Christian Observer, On Prophetic Speculation:
      There is a sound common-sense maxim, frequently heard among the wise and prudent of this world—First things first, […]
    • 1922, H. G. Wells, chapter 4, in The Secret Places of the Heart:
      “First things first,” said Sir Richmond. “If we set about getting fuel sanely, if we do it as the deliberate, co-operative act of the whole species, then it follows that we shall look very closely into the use that is being made of it.”
    • 1999 July 23, Frank Pellegrini, “House Republicans Quell Mutiny Over Tax Bounty”, in Time‎[1], New York, N.Y.: Time Inc., →ISSN, →OCLC, archived from the original on 30 April 2009:
      Judging by the polls—which still favor Clinton and his mantra of “first things first” (Medicare and education)—the public senses it too.
    • 2007 October 21, Jenni Muir, “Essentials for a wannabe chef—sugar, cream, mouse”, in Sunday Times‎[2], UK:
      First things first, you need the right tools.

Usage notes

Can be used as an aphorism or admonition, but also to introduce a topic or list.

Translations

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