Meaning
Deal with the most important matters before anything else.
Cultural Background
In American business, this is often used to cut through 'small talk' and get to the agenda. Used similarly, but often with a slightly more polite tone to avoid sounding bossy.
Use it as a bridge
It is a great way to transition from casual chat to serious work.
Meaning
Deal with the most important matters before anything else.
Use it as a bridge
It is a great way to transition from casual chat to serious work.
Test Yourself
Complete the phrase.
____ ____ ____, let's finish the report.
The idiom is fixed as 'First things first'.
When should you use this phrase?
You are in a meeting and someone starts talking about next year's budget before finishing this month's.
It is the perfect way to bring the focus back to the current task.
🎉 Score: /2
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
2 exercises____ ____ ____, let's finish the report.
The idiom is fixed as 'First things first'.
You are in a meeting and someone starts talking about next year's budget before finishing this month's.
It is the perfect way to bring the focus back to the current task.
🎉 Score: /2
Frequently Asked Questions
1 questionsNo, it is a standard way to organize a meeting.
Related Phrases
One thing at a time
similarDon't multitask.
Get down to business
similarStart working.
