first and foremost
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Heteropessimism exists alongside heterosexuality not because being straight is terrible or embarrassing or out of fashion, but because it is, first and foremost, an institution — one that in many places remains dangerous to spurn.
From Salon • Jun. 3, 2026
There is a bizarre universe built around the prestige and untouchability of the court that is first and foremost perpetuated by the people on the court.
From Slate • May 13, 2026
Even as a multi-hyphenate, I always say I’m first and foremost a battle rapper.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 23, 2026
This perpetual instability likely led many Israelis, perhaps first and foremost Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, to believe that the regime was more brittle than it actually was.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026
Her parents had sent Hatsue to Mrs. Shigemura with the intent that the girl would not forget that she was first and foremost Japanese.
From "Snow Falling on Cedars: A Novel" by David Guterson
![]()