in primis
Lemma: in primis
Translation: first and foremost; primarily; above all; in the first place (adverbial phrase)
Etymology: Derived directly from Latin 'in primis' meaning 'among the first things'. It comes from 'in' (in, among) and 'primis', the ablative plural of 'primus' (first). The Latin 'primus' shares the same Indo-European root as English words like 'prime', 'primary', and 'primitive'. This expression has maintained its original Latin form in Italian, preserving both its spelling and meaning.
Example Usage
In primis, vorrei ringraziare tutti i presenti.
First and foremost, I would like to thank everyone present.
Dobbiamo considerare, in primis, la sicurezza dei bambini.
We must consider, above all, the safety of the children.
In primis, è necessario completare il modulo di iscrizione.
First of all, it is necessary to complete the registration form.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'prime' in English (meaning first or most important) to remember that 'in primis' refers to something that comes first or is most important.
- The 'prim' in 'primis' connects to 'primary' - helping you remember it means 'first and foremost'.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
This Latin expression is used in formal or academic contexts in Italian. It's common in essays, legal documents, and formal speeches. Its usage demonstrates education and sophistication, as it's part of the Latin heritage that remains influential in Italian intellectual discourse.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While both expressions mean 'in the first place' or 'firstly', 'in primis' is a Latin phrase and tends to be more formal, while 'in primo luogo' is the native Italian expression and more commonly used in everyday language.
Confused word:
In primo luogo, dobbiamo considerare i costi.
In the first place, we must consider the costs.
Notes: 'In primis' is shorter and often preferred in academic or legal writing, while 'in primo luogo' might be followed by 'in secondo luogo' (in the second place) in a numbered list.
Mnemonic: 'In primis' has the Latin ending '-is' making it more formal and scholarly, while 'in primo luogo' uses the Italian word 'luogo' (place).