B2 Expression Very Formal 7 min read

We shall make it our priority to

Formal business communication expression

In 15 Seconds

  • Ultra-formal promise used in high-stakes business communication.
  • Indicates a task is the absolute number one goal.
  • Uses 'shall' to create a sense of binding obligation.
  • Best for CEO emails, legal statements, or crisis management.

Meaning

This is the ultimate professional promise. It tells someone that their request is at the very top of your to-do list, above everything else. It sounds incredibly serious, committed, and carries a high-end, authoritative vibe.

Key Examples

3 of 10
1

CEO addressing a security concern

We shall make it our priority to secure all user accounts immediately.

We will make it our priority to secure all user accounts immediately.

<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>
2

Luxury hotel manager replying to a complaint

We shall make it our priority to ensure your next stay is perfect.

We will make it our priority to ensure your next stay is perfect.

<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>
3

Job interview closing statement

If hired, I shall make it my priority to improve the team's efficiency.

If hired, I will make it my priority to improve the team's efficiency.

<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>
🌍

Cultural Background

In British English, 'shall' is still used in formal contexts to express a strong determination or a promise. It sounds traditional and authoritative. Americans rarely use 'shall' in speech. When they use this phrase, it is almost always in written legal documents or very high-level corporate communications. When translating this to Japanese business contexts, the emphasis is on 'omotenashi' (service) and 'keigo' (honorifics). The English phrase is seen as a sign of high-level respect. German business culture values directness and precision. This phrase is appreciated because it clearly defines what the 'Hauptpriorität' (main priority) is.

🎯

The 'Shall' Power Move

Use 'shall' instead of 'will' when you want to sound like the person in charge. It commands respect.

⚠️

Don't Overuse It

If you say this about every small task, people will stop believing you. Save it for the big stuff.

In 15 Seconds

  • Ultra-formal promise used in high-stakes business communication.
  • Indicates a task is the absolute number one goal.
  • Uses 'shall' to create a sense of binding obligation.
  • Best for CEO emails, legal statements, or crisis management.

What It Means

Ever received an email that sounded like it was written by a 19th-century butler in a sharp suit? That is the vibe we are dealing with here. When you say We shall make it our priority to, you are not just saying you will do something. You are making a solemn, professional vow. The word shall is the secret sauce here. It is much heavier and more binding than a simple will. It suggests a moral or legal obligation. It tells the listener that this task is now the center of your universe. You are putting it ahead of your lunch, your other meetings, and maybe even your sleep. It is the language of CEOs and luxury hotel managers. If a company tells you this, they are trying to make you feel like a VIP. It is about building trust through extreme politeness.

How To Use It

You usually follow this phrase with a strong verb. Think of things like resolve, investigate, address, or implement. You do not say We shall make it our priority to eat pizza. That is too casual for such a heavy-duty frame. Instead, use it for big tasks. If a customer is angry because their app crashed, this phrase is your shield. It goes at the start of a sentence to set a serious tone. You are basically saying, 'Stop worrying, the adults are in the room now.' Just remember that the to at the end needs a base verb. Do not add -ing to the next word. It is to fix, not to fixing. Keep it clean and professional. Use it when you need to sound like you have a 5-year plan and a mahogany desk.

Formality & Register

This phrase lives at the very top of the formality mountain. It is 'Very Formal.' You will see it in official press releases or high-stakes business contracts. It is also common in formal letters to the editor or government announcements. In a WhatsApp group with your friends, it would sound like a joke. If you tell your buddy, We shall make it our priority to find a pub, they will probably ask if you are feeling okay. It is designed for 'Register 5'—the most distant and respectful level of English. It creates a professional wall between you and the other person. This wall is not meant to be mean; it is meant to show respect. It says, 'I respect you enough to use my best grammar.' It is the linguistic equivalent of wearing a tuxedo to a gala. It is polished, expensive-sounding, and very disciplined.

Real-Life Examples

Imagine a CEO responding to a security breach. They would say, We shall make it our priority to secure all user data. It sounds much better than We'll try to fix the hack. Another scenario is a luxury airline dealing with a delayed flight. The gate agent might announce, We shall make it our priority to rebook all passengers. This calms people down because it sounds organized. You might also find it in a LinkedIn 'Update from the Founder' post. When a startup pivots, they might post: We shall make it our priority to listen to our community. It is also great for job cover letters. You could write, If hired, I shall make it our priority to exceed sales targets. It shows you are ambitious and understand high-level corporate culture. It is all about that 'professional polish.'

When To Use It

Use it when the stakes are high. If someone is losing money or their time is being wasted, use this to reassure them. It is perfect for the first email in a customer support escalation. It is also excellent for formal presentations to a board of directors. If you are a freelancer and you messed up a deadline, this phrase can save your reputation. It shows you take the error seriously. Use it when you are writing to someone you do not know well but want to impress. It is the perfect tool for 'damage control.' When you need to sound like a leader who has everything under control, reach for this phrase. It is your 'emergency break' for chaos. It stops the panic and replaces it with professional order.

When NOT To Use It

Do not use this at a Saturday night BBQ. Your friends will think you have been watching too much 'Downton Abbey.' Avoid it in casual Slack channels unless you are being intentionally funny. If the task is small, this phrase is overkill. Do not say, We shall make it our priority to buy more pens. It makes the speaker sound a bit ridiculous or out of touch. Also, avoid it if you do not actually plan on doing the task immediately. Because it is so formal, people will hold you to it. If you say it and then wait two weeks to act, you look like a liar. It is a 'high-trust' phrase, so do not use it for 'low-priority' tasks. Using a sledgehammer to crack a nut is never a good look.

Common Mistakes

One big mistake is mixing up shall and should. ✗ We should make it our priority to → ✓ We shall make it our priority to. Should sounds like a suggestion; shall is a command. Another error is forgetting the it. ✗ We shall make our priority to → ✓ We shall make IT our priority to. The it is a placeholder that refers to the action you are about to name. Some people also try to use must here. ✗ We must make it our priority to... while grammatically okay, it lacks the elegant 'vow' feeling of shall. Also, watch your verb endings. ✗ We shall make it our priority to resolving → ✓ We shall make it our priority to resolve. Stick to the basic form of the verb. It is simpler and much more correct.

Common Variations

If shall feels a bit too much like a 1920s movie, you can use will. We will make it our priority to is slightly more modern but still very professional. If you want to be even more direct, try Our top priority is to. This is the 'No-Nonsense' version. For a more personal touch, you can say I will personally make it my priority to. This puts the responsibility on you, not a faceless company. In tech circles, you might hear We are prioritizing the resolution of... which is a bit more 'jargon-heavy.' On social media, brands often shorten it to Top of our list is... to sound a bit more 'down to earth.' But if you want the gold standard of formality, the original shall version is still the king of the mountain.

Real Conversations

C

CEO

The data leak is a disaster. What is the plan?
M

Manager

We shall make it our priority to patch the servers immediately.
C

Customer

My order is three days late and I need it for a wedding!
S

Support

I am so sorry. We shall make it our priority to track your package right now.
I

Investor

I am worried about the falling user engagement.
F

Founder

We shall make it our priority to launch the new features by Monday.

Job Recruiter: Why should we hire you for this project?

C

Candidate

I shall make it my priority to streamline your current workflow.

Quick FAQ

Is shall only for British people? No, but they do use it more often! In the US, it is mostly reserved for legal documents or very high-level business. Does it have to be We? Usually, yes, because it represents a team or company. But I works if you are a solo pro. Can I use it in a text? Only if you are texting your boss about a major crisis. For a lunch date? Definitely not. Is it old-fashioned? A little bit, but that is why it sounds so respectful and serious. It is 'old-school' in the best way possible. It shows you have class and understand professional etiquette. It is the verbal equivalent of a firm, dry handshake.

Usage Notes

This phrase is a 'high-register' linguistic tool. It should be reserved for situations where you need to project extreme professionalism, authority, and commitment. Use it sparingly to maintain its impact.

🎯

The 'Shall' Power Move

Use 'shall' instead of 'will' when you want to sound like the person in charge. It commands respect.

⚠️

Don't Overuse It

If you say this about every small task, people will stop believing you. Save it for the big stuff.

💬

Email Etiquette

This is a great phrase to use in the first paragraph of a reply to an angry customer email.

Examples

10
#1 CEO addressing a security concern
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

We shall make it our priority to secure all user accounts immediately.

We will make it our priority to secure all user accounts immediately.

The CEO uses this to project authority and calm during a crisis.

#2 Luxury hotel manager replying to a complaint
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

We shall make it our priority to ensure your next stay is perfect.

We will make it our priority to ensure your next stay is perfect.

Adds a high-end 'concierge' feel to the apology.

#3 Job interview closing statement
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

If hired, I shall make it my priority to improve the team's efficiency.

If hired, I will make it my priority to improve the team's efficiency.

Shows the candidate is serious and understands corporate register.

#4 Official government announcement
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

The council shall make it our priority to fix the city's infrastructure.

The council will make it our priority to fix the city's infrastructure.

Sounds like a legal mandate or a formal campaign promise.

#5 Instagram caption for a brand relaunch
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M4.318 6.318a4.5 4.5 0 000 6.364L12 20.364l7.682-7.682a4.5 4.5 0 00-6.364-6.364L12 7.636l-1.318-1.318a4.5 4.5 0 00-6.364 0z"/></svg>

As we grow, we shall make it our priority to stay sustainable. 🌱

As we grow, we will make it our priority to stay sustainable.

Elevates the brand's 'mission statement' for social media followers.

#6 Customer support email during a service outage
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

We shall make it our priority to restore service as quickly as possible.

We will make it our priority to restore service as quickly as possible.

The standard 'damage control' phrase in tech support.

#7 LinkedIn update from a tech founder
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

Moving forward, we shall make it our priority to focus on user privacy.

Moving forward, we will make it our priority to focus on user privacy.

A typical 'pivot' statement meant to regain public trust.

#8 Humorous office email about the coffee machine
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

Team, we shall make it our priority to ensure the espresso machine never runs dry again.

Team, we will make it our priority to ensure the coffee machine is always full.

Using hyper-formal language for a minor task creates a funny, ironic effect.

Common learner error with 'should' Common Mistake
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

✗ We should make it our priority to finish the report. → ✓ We shall make it our priority to finish the report.

We should make it our priority to finish the report.

Don't use 'should' if you want to sound certain. 'Should' sounds like a suggestion.

Common learner error with verb form Common Mistake
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

✗ We shall make it our priority to resolving the bug. → ✓ We shall make it our priority to resolve the bug.

We shall make it our priority to resolving the bug.

Always use the base verb (infinitive) after 'to'.

Test Yourself

Complete the formal promise using the correct words.

We ___ make ___ our priority ___ resolve this issue.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a

The standard formal phrase is 'shall make it our priority to'.

Which sentence is the most appropriate for a formal business email to a client?

A client is complaining about a delay. How do you respond?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: b

Option B uses the correct register and grammar. Option D has the wrong preposition ('for').

Fill in the missing line in this job interview.

Interviewer: 'How will you ensure the project stays on budget?' Candidate: '___'

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a

Option A is grammatically perfect and professionally phrased.

Match the phrase variation to the correct context.

1. 'We'll get on it.' 2. 'We shall make it our priority to...' 3. 'I'll put it at the top of my list.'

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: c

'We'll get on it' is informal/casual. 'We shall make it our priority' is very formal. 'Top of my list' is neutral/common.

🎉 Score: /4

Visual Learning Aids

Practice Bank

4 exercises
Complete the formal promise using the correct words. Fill Blank B2

We ___ make ___ our priority ___ resolve this issue.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a

The standard formal phrase is 'shall make it our priority to'.

Which sentence is the most appropriate for a formal business email to a client? Choose B2

A client is complaining about a delay. How do you respond?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: b

Option B uses the correct register and grammar. Option D has the wrong preposition ('for').

Fill in the missing line in this job interview. dialogue_completion B2

Interviewer: 'How will you ensure the project stays on budget?' Candidate: '___'

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: a

Option A is grammatically perfect and professionally phrased.

Match the phrase variation to the correct context. situation_matching B1

1. 'We'll get on it.' 2. 'We shall make it our priority to...' 3. 'I'll put it at the top of my list.'

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: c

'We'll get on it' is informal/casual. 'We shall make it our priority' is very formal. 'Top of my list' is neutral/common.

🎉 Score: /4

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Not in writing. While rare in speech, it remains very common in formal emails and contracts to show a high level of commitment.

No, the phrase usually stays singular ('our priority') because you are focusing on one main goal at a time.

'A priority' is one of many; 'our priority' sounds more exclusive and dedicated.

Only if you are being funny. It's much too formal for casual friendship.

In legal terms, yes. In general business, it's a very strong 'will'.

Yes, 'I shall make it my priority to...' is perfect for taking personal responsibility.

Any base verb: to fix, to help, to ensure, to provide, to resolve.

Yes, but mostly in formal writing. Americans prefer 'We will make it a priority' in speech.

Add the word 'top': 'We shall make it our top priority to...'

Then don't use this phrase! This phrase implies immediate and focused action.

Related Phrases

🔗

To give someone the green light

similar

To give permission to start a priority project.

🔗

At the forefront of

similar

To be in a leading or most important position.

🔗

To take a back seat

contrast

To choose to be less important or active.

🔗

Top-tier

specialized form

Of the highest quality or importance.

Was this helpful?

Comments (0)

Login to Comment
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!