School / B2

PRYM-uh-ree/ˈpraɪməri/

Primary means most important, or to do with first-stage school: the primary source; a primary school. Main is everyday; principal (already elsewhere) is a trap for “main”. The primary source is the diary. Mix-up: prime is a similar adjective (prime minister). Do not call a textbook a primary source.

Meaning

Most important; also relating to the first years of school.

Examples

• “The primary source is the diary, not the textbook summary.”
• “Primary pupils used the hall after lunch, which is the school-stage sense.”

Good to know

the primary + noun; primary school / care / source. Everyday: main. Trap: principal / prime. History, health, and education. First or most important.

Near in meaning

main

Topics

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