# primacy

/ˈpɹaɪməsi/ (US) · /pɹˈaɪməsi/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/primacy
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

the most important or highest position in a group. In religion, it refers to the belief that one person or thing is more important than others.

For teachers: the state of being first or most important; the highest rank or priority. In a religious context, it refers to the belief in the supreme authority or superiority of one entity over others.

## Examples

- The church teaches the primacy of the Pope.
- The debate centered on the primacy of individual conscience over the dictates of the state.
- Theological disputes regarding the primacy of the papacy have historically defined the boundaries of Catholic and Protestant thought, influencing the structure of the Church for centuries.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.