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B1 verb 9 min de leitura

優先する

yuusen suru

Pratique Exemplos Notas e dicas 優先する em 30 segundos

Explicação 優先する in your Level:

At the A1 level, you are just starting your Japanese journey. You probably won't use the word '優先する' (yuusen suru) yourself because it's a bit formal and complex. Instead, you will learn the concept of 'doing something first' using the word '先に' (saki ni). For example, you might say '先に食べます' (I will eat first). However, even at A1, you will see the word '優先' (yuusen) in the real world! If you take a train in Japan, you will see signs for '優先席' (yuusenseki). These are 'priority seats' for people who need them, like the elderly or pregnant women. At this level, just remember that 'yuu' means good/superior and 'sen' means first/ahead. If you see these kanji together on a sign, it means 'this person or thing comes first.' You don't need to worry about the grammar of the verb yet, but recognizing the kanji will help you navigate Japan safely and politely. Think of it as a 'survival word' for public transport!

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At the A2 level, you are beginning to form more complex sentences and talk about your daily routine. While '優先する' (yuusen suru) is still a bit advanced, you might start to encounter it in simple reading materials or polite announcements. You should understand that this word is a 'suru-verb,' which means it behaves like 'benkyou suru' (to study) or 'kaimono suru' (to shop). The most important thing at A2 is learning how to say you are doing one thing instead of another. You might use the structure '[A] じゃなくて [B] をします' (I'll do B, not A). '優先する' is the more 'grown-up' version of this. If you want to sound a bit more formal, you can start using '優先' in your writing. For example, '健康を優先します' (I prioritize health). It's a great word to use when you want to explain a choice you made in a way that sounds respectful and clear. You might also see it in simple news for Japanese learners (like NHK News Web Easy) when they talk about government rules or school schedules.

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Congratulations! B1 is the 'target' level for '優先する' (yuusen suru). At this stage, you are expected to handle everyday situations in Japanese, including work and social life. '優先する' is a key vocabulary word for being an effective communicator. You will use it to explain your reasoning: 'Why did you do Task A first?' 'Because I prioritized the deadline' (納期を優先したからです). You should master the particle 'を' (wo) with this verb and the comparison structure '〜より〜を優先する' (prioritize X over Y). This is also the level where you learn '優先順位' (yuusen jun'i), which means 'priority order' or 'ranking.' In a Japanese office, being able to say '優先順位をつけましょう' (Let's set the priorities) is a sign of high competence. You will hear this word in movies, dramas, and business settings constantly. It allows you to move beyond just describing 'what' you are doing to explaining 'why' and 'how' you are managing your time and values. It is a bridge to professional Japanese.

At the B2 level, you should be comfortable using '優先する' (yuusen suru) in a variety of grammatical forms, including the passive ('優先される') and the causative ('優先させる'). You will use it to discuss abstract concepts like 'prioritizing the environment over economic growth' (経済成長より環境を優先する). At this level, you are also learning many synonyms and nuances. You can distinguish between '優先する' (to prioritize) and '重視する' (to place importance on). You might use the adverbial form '優先的に' (yuusenteki ni) to describe how a project should be handled: 'このプロジェクトを優先的に進める必要があります' (We need to proceed with this project preferentially). You will also encounter '優先' in legal or technical contexts, such as '優先権' (yuusen-ken), which means 'priority right' or 'precedence.' Your understanding of the word should now include its social implications—how prioritizing one thing in a group-oriented society like Japan can affect harmony (wa). You can use this word to navigate complex social negotiations and professional planning with ease.

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At the C1 level, your use of '優先する' (yuusen suru) should be near-native. You will encounter this word in high-level academic texts, political speeches, and complex literature. You should be aware of its use in specific domains like computer science ('CPU優先度' - CPU priority) or law. You will understand the subtle rhetorical power of the word. For example, a politician might use '国民の生活を最優先する' (prioritizing the lives of the citizens above all else) to gain public trust. You should be able to discuss the philosophical implications of prioritization—how the act of 'yuusen suru' defines an individual's or a nation's 'identity' (アイデンティティ). You will also be familiar with more obscure kanji compounds involving '優先', such as '優先交渉権' (exclusive right to negotiate). At this level, you don't just 'know' the word; you understand its weight in the Japanese 'discourse of values.' You can use it to construct sophisticated arguments in debates or write high-level reports where you analyze the strategic priorities of a corporation.

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At the C2 level, you have a complete mastery of '優先する' (yuusen suru) and all its related forms. You can use it with perfect nuance in any context, from a casual chat with a friend to a high-stakes diplomatic negotiation. You understand the historical evolution of the concept of 'priority' in Japanese society and how words like '優先' replaced or augmented older terms like '先んじる' (sakinjiru). You can analyze the use of '優先' in Japanese law, such as in the 'Road Traffic Act' or 'Bankruptcy Law,' and explain how it differs from similar concepts in English-speaking legal systems. Your vocabulary includes highly specialized terms like '優先株' (preferred stock) in finance. You are also sensitive to the 'unspoken' priorities in Japanese culture—the 'kuuki wo yomu' (reading the air) that often dictates what should be prioritized without it ever being said aloud. At this level, the word is just one tool in your vast linguistic arsenal, used with precision and cultural depth to express the most complex human and organizational dynamics.

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Pratique Exemplos Notas e dicas

優先する em 30 segundos

Priority: Giving precedence to one thing over another in importance or time.
Grammar: A transitive suru-verb that takes the particle 'wo' for the object.
Context: Used in business, public transport, and personal decision-making.
Comparison: Often used with 'yori' to show what is being deprioritized.

The Japanese verb 優先する (yuusen suru) is a fundamental term for anyone moving beyond basic Japanese into the intermediate B1 level. At its core, it translates to 'to prioritize' or 'to give preference to.' The word is composed of two kanji: 優 (yuu), meaning 'superior' or 'excellent,' and 先 (sen), meaning 'ahead' or 'before.' When combined as a suru-verb, they literally describe the act of putting something in a superior position ahead of other things. This isn't just about time; it's about value, importance, and systematic ranking. In a society like Japan, where efficiency and social harmony are highly valued, knowing what to prioritize is a crucial cultural and linguistic skill.

Grammatical Category: This is a Suru-verb (Group 3). It is transitive, meaning it typically takes the particle を to indicate the object being prioritized.
Common Contexts: You will encounter this word in business meetings when discussing project timelines, in daily life regarding family commitments, and in public transportation settings like priority seating for the elderly or injured.

仕事よりも家族との時間を優先することにしました。 (I have decided to prioritize time with my family over work.)

Understanding 優先する also requires understanding the noun form, 優先 (yuusen). You will see this on signs everywhere in Japan. For instance, 優先席 (yuusenseki) refers to priority seats on trains. In these contexts, the word functions as a prefix. However, when used as a verb, it describes the active decision-making process of an individual or an organization. It implies a conscious choice to set aside less important tasks to focus on the most critical ones. This is particularly relevant in the Japanese 'Work-Life Balance' (ワークライフバランス) discourse, where people are increasingly encouraged to prioritize personal well-being.

このプロジェクトでは、スピードより質を優先してください。 (In this project, please prioritize quality over speed.)

Social Nuance: Using this word in a conversation shows that you are thinking logically and strategically. It is a formal yet common word that fits perfectly in professional environments.

緊急性の高いタスクを優先する必要があります。 (It is necessary to prioritize highly urgent tasks.)

In summary, 優先する is more than just 'doing something first.' it is the formal expression of value-based ranking. Whether you are managing your study schedule, navigating a Japanese office, or just trying to explain why you can't come to a party, this verb provides the necessary weight to your reasoning. It suggests a structured approach to life and work that is highly respected in Japanese culture.

To use 優先する correctly, you must master its grammatical structure. Since it is a transitive verb, it requires an object—the thing that is being given priority. This object is marked by the particle を (wo). If you are comparing two things, the less important item is marked by より (yori), which means 'than' or 'rather than.' This creates a clear hierarchy in your speech.

Sentence Pattern 1: [Object] を優先する。 (To prioritize [Object].)
Sentence Pattern 2: [A] より [B] を優先する。 (To prioritize B over A.)

安全を第一に優先するべきです。 (We should prioritize safety above all else.)

The verb can be conjugated like any other suru-verb. For polite requests, you can use 優先してください (yuusen shite kudasai). In business emails, you might see the humble form 優先させていただきます (yuusen sasete itadakimasu), which means 'I will take the liberty of prioritizing...' This shows respect to the recipient while clearly stating your intentions. Another common variation is 優先される (yuusen sareru), the passive form, used when something 'is prioritized' by an external force or situation.

この作業を優先的に進めてください。 (Please proceed with this task preferentially/with priority.)

In complex sentences, 優先する often pairs with nouns like 利益 (rieki - profit), 効率 (kouritsu - efficiency), or 感情 (kanjou - feelings). For example, 感情を優先する means 'to prioritize feelings.' This is often used when discussing interpersonal relationships or decision-making that isn't purely logical. In contrast, 論理を優先する (to prioritize logic) is what you might expect in a scientific or technical context.

Common Collocation: 優先順位をつける (yuusen jun'i wo tsukeru): To set a priority order / To rank in order of priority.

まずはタスクに優先順位をつけてから始めましょう。 (First, let's start after setting a priority order for the tasks.)

Whether you are a student or a professional, mastering these patterns allows you to express not just what you are doing, but the logic behind your choices. It moves your Japanese from simple descriptions of actions to an explanation of your values and strategy.

If you spend any time in Japan, you will hear and see variations of 優先する daily. The most common place is undoubtedly the public transportation system. Every train car has a section called 優先席 (yuusenseki). While this is a noun, the announcements often use the verb form or related concepts to remind passengers to prioritize those in need. You might hear: 'お年寄りや、お体の不自由な方に席を譲ることを優先してください' (Please prioritize giving up your seat to the elderly or those with disabilities).

駅のアナウンス：「優先席付近では携帯電話の電源をお切りください。」 (Station Announcement: "Please turn off your mobile phone near the priority seats.")

In the corporate world, 優先する is a keyword in 'Project Management' and 'Time Management.' During morning meetings (朝礼 - chourei), a manager might ask the team which tasks they are 優先している (prioritizing) for the day. It's a way to ensure everyone is aligned with the company's goals. If a deadline is approaching, the phrase 納期を最優先する (prioritizing the delivery date above all else) becomes the mantra of the office.

会議での発言：「コスト削減を最優先する方針です。」 (Comment in a meeting: "Our policy is to prioritize cost reduction above all else.")

You will also hear this word in the news, especially during natural disasters or emergencies. Emergency services use 優先 to describe triage—deciding which patients to treat first. News reports might say '救急車両の通行を優先してください' (Please prioritize the passage of emergency vehicles). In a country prone to earthquakes, these instructions are vital and understood by everyone.

Customer Service: Airlines and hotels often have 優先搭乗 (yuusen toujou - priority boarding) or 優先チェックイン (yuusen chekku-in - priority check-in) for premium members.

空港のアナウンス：「小さなお子様をお連れのお客様を優先してご案内いたします。」 (Airport Announcement: "We will prioritize guiding passengers traveling with small children.")

Finally, in daily conversation among friends, the word is used to explain personal choices. If someone declines an invitation, they might say 'ごめん、明日は試験勉強を優先したいんだ' (Sorry, I want to prioritize studying for my exam tomorrow). It sounds more serious and committed than just saying 'I have to study,' as it implies a conscious choice of one activity over another.

While 優先する is a powerful word, learners often trip up on its formality and specific particle usage. One common mistake is using it in situations that are too casual or simple. For example, if you are just eating your favorite food first, saying 'Sushi wo yuusen suru' sounds a bit like you are performing a strategic analysis of your dinner. In casual settings, 先に (saki ni) is usually much more natural.

Mistake 1: Particle Confusion: Using に instead of を. While you might say 'give priority to something' in English, in Japanese, the thing prioritized is the direct object: [Object] を優先する.

Incorrect: 家族に優先する (Kazoku ni yuusen suru)
Correct: 家族を優先する (Kazoku wo yuusen suru)

Another error is confusing 優先する with 重視する (juushi suru). While they are similar, juushi suru means 'to place importance on' or 'to value highly.' You can value something highly without necessarily putting it 'first' in a sequence of actions. 優先する specifically implies a temporal or sequential order—doing A before B because A is more important.

彼は誠実さを重視している。 (He values honesty highly.)
彼は仕事を優先している。 (He is prioritizing work.)

Learners also sometimes forget the より (yori) structure when comparing. If you want to say 'prioritize A over B,' the B must come before the より. A common mistake is flipping them, which completely changes your meaning and might lead to you accidentally telling your boss you're prioritizing your nap over the meeting!

Mistake 2: Comparison Order: Remember: [Less Important] より [More Important] を優先する。

遊びより勉強を優先する。 (Prioritize study over play.)

Finally, be careful with the passive form 優先される. It is often used to describe rights or privileges. For example, '歩行者が優先される' (Pedestrians are given priority). Using the active form '優先する' here would imply that the pedestrians themselves are the ones doing the prioritizing, which doesn't make sense in this context. Always check who is making the decision!

Japanese has several ways to express the concept of importance and order. Choosing the right one depends on the register (formal vs. casual) and the specific nuance you want to convey. 優先する is the standard, mid-to-high level word for 'prioritize.' Let's look at its closest neighbors.

重視する (Juushi suru): To regard as important. Unlike yuusen, it doesn't necessarily imply a sequence or 'putting ahead' of something else. It's about the weight of value you give to a concept.
先にする (Saki ni suru): To do [something] first. This is the casual, everyday version. If you're telling a friend you'll do your homework before going out, this is the phrase to use.
重んじる (Omonjiru): To value, to honor, to respect. This is a more literary or formal word often used for traditions, rules, or virtues (e.g., 'honoring tradition').

宿題を先にしなさい！ (Do your homework first! - Casual/Parental)
伝統を重んじる文化。 (A culture that values tradition. - Formal/Literary)

In a business context, you might also see 第一に考える (Dai-ichi ni kangaeru), which literally means 'to think of [something] as the first thing.' This is a very common way to express priorities in a more conversational but still professional manner. For example, 'お客様の満足を第一に考えています' (We consider customer satisfaction our first priority).

Another interesting alternative is 繰り上げる (Kuriageru). This means to 'move up' a schedule. If you decide to prioritize a meeting, you might kuriageru its time. While not a direct synonym, it's the action often taken as a result of prioritizing something.

最優先 (Sai-yuusen): Top priority. Adding the kanji for 'most' (最) creates the highest possible level of priority. Used in urgent situations.

この件は最優先でお願いします。 (Please handle this as the top priority.)

By understanding these nuances, you can tailor your Japanese to perfectly fit the situation—whether you're explaining your values to a friend, setting goals with a team, or discussing high-level strategy in a boardroom.

How Formal Is It?

Curiosidade

The kanji '優' is also used in 'yasashii' (kind). This suggests that in the original concept, being 'superior' was linked to being 'gentle' or 'refined.'

Guia de pronúncia

UK juːsen suɾu

US juːsen suɾu

The pitch accent is 'Heiban' (Flat). This means the pitch starts low on 'yu' and then stays high for 'u-se-n-su-ru'.

Rima com

Chuusen (抽選 - lottery) Shuusen (終戦 - end of war) Kyuusen (休戦 - truce) Suisen (推薦 - recommendation) Shensen (戦線 - battle line) Gensen (源泉 - source) Shinsen (新鮮 - fresh) Kousen (光線 - light beam)

Erros comuns

Pronouncing 'yuu' as a short 'yu'. It must be a long vowel.
Stressing the 'sen' too much. Keep the pitch flat.
Pronouncing the 'r' in 'suru' like an English 'r'. It should be a light tap like a 'd' or 't'.
Confusing 'yuusen' with 'yuusen' (wireless - different kanji: 有線). Context is key.
Making the 'n' too heavy. It should be a nasal 'n'.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 3/5

The kanji are common but require intermediate knowledge.

Escrita 3/5

Writing '優' can be tricky due to the number of strokes.

Expressão oral 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward once you master the long 'yuu'.

Audição 2/5

Common in announcements and news; easy to recognize.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

先 (Before) 大事 (Important) 決める (To decide) 席 (Seat) 仕事 (Work)

Aprenda a seguir

重視する (To value) 効率 (Efficiency) 納期 (Deadline) 判断 (Judgment) 調整 (Adjustment)

Avançado

劣後 (Subordination) 排他的 (Exclusive) 享受 (Enjoyment/Benefit) 帰属 (Attribution) 抵触 (Conflict/Clash)

Gramática essencial

Suru-verbs

勉強する、優先する。

Comparison with 'Yori'

AよりBを優先する。

Te-form for reason

安全を優先して、中止した。

Passive voice 'Sareru'

歩行者が優先される。

Causative voice 'Saseru'

部下に仕事を優先させる。

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Exemplos por nível

電車に優先席があります。

There are priority seats on the train.

Here, '優先' is used as a noun modifying '席' (seat).

お年寄りを優先しましょう。

Let's give priority to the elderly.

Simple use of the verb '優先する' in the 'let's' form.

まずは、これを優先します。

First, I will prioritize this.

Using 'まずは' (first of all) with the verb.

自分より家族を優先します。

I prioritize my family over myself.

Uses the 'AよりB' comparison structure.

仕事は後で、遊びを優先！

Work later, prioritize play!

Casual exclamation using the verb concept.

赤いボタンを優先して押してください。

Please prioritize pressing the red button.

Using '優先して' as a conjunctive form.

この席は優先です。

This seat is priority.

Noun + です (simple identification).

健康を優先してください。

Please prioritize your health.

Polite request form '〜てください'.

私はいつも勉強を優先することにしています。

I always make it a rule to prioritize studying.

〜ことにしている indicates a personal habit or rule.

どちらを優先すればいいですか？

Which one should I prioritize?

〜ばいいですか asks for advice or instructions.

彼は仕事より趣味を優先するタイプです。

He is the type who prioritizes hobbies over work.

〜タイプです describes a person's character.

安全を優先して、ゆっくり運転しましょう。

Prioritizing safety, let's drive slowly.

Te-form used to show the reason or method for the main action.

このプロジェクトでは質を優先します。

In this project, we prioritize quality.

Using 'では' to set the context/scope.

忙しい時は、寝る時間を優先しましょう。

When you're busy, let's prioritize sleep time.

Time clause '〜時は' + suggestion.

彼はいつも友達との約束を優先します。

He always prioritizes promises with friends.

Direct object '約束' with 'を'.

どちらのタスクを優先するか決めてください。

Please decide which task to prioritize.

Embedding a question 'か' inside a sentence.

まずは優先順位をつけてから、作業を始めましょう。

Let's start the work after setting a priority order.

Uses the compound noun '優先順位' (priority order).

納期を最優先して進める必要があります。

It is necessary to proceed by prioritizing the deadline above all else.

Uses '最優先' (top priority) as a verb.

彼は自分の利益だけを優先する傾向がある。

He tends to prioritize only his own interests.

〜傾向がある (tendency to do something).

この会社は社員のワークライフバランスを優先している。

This company prioritizes the employees' work-life balance.

Present continuous '〜ている' showing a current state or policy.

緊急性の高いものから優先的に処理してください。

Please process them preferentially, starting with the most urgent ones.

Uses the adverbial form '優先的に'.

感情を優先するあまり、論理的な判断ができなかった。

Because I prioritized my feelings too much, I couldn't make a logical judgment.

〜あまり (so much that... / due to excessive...).

どちらの案を優先させるべきか、議論が分かれた。

Opinions were divided on which proposal should be prioritized.

Causative form '優先させる' (to make/let something be prioritized).

コスト削減を優先した結果、品質が低下してしまった。

As a result of prioritizing cost reduction, the quality dropped.

〜た結果 (as a result of...).

歩行者の安全が優先されるべきなのは言うまでもない。

It goes without saying that pedestrian safety should be prioritized.

Passive form '優先される' + '〜べき' (should) + '言うまでもない' (goes without saying).

政府は経済再生を最優先課題として掲げている。

The government is holding up economic recovery as its top priority task.

Uses '最優先課題' (top priority issue/task).

彼は常に全体の調和を優先し、自分の意見を抑える。

He always prioritizes the harmony of the whole and suppresses his own opinion.

Shows the cultural nuance of 'wa' (harmony).

限られたリソースをどこに優先配分するかが重要だ。

Where to prioritize the allocation of limited resources is important.

Compound word '優先配分' (priority allocation).

スピードを優先するあまり、細部への注意が疎かになった。

In the rush to prioritize speed, attention to detail was neglected.

〜が疎かになる (to be neglected/become lax).

このアプリはユーザーの使いやすさを最優先に設計されている。

This app is designed with user-friendliness as the top priority.

Passive '設計されている' (is designed).

どちらの権利を優先するかは、法的に非常に難しい問題だ。

Which right to prioritize is a very difficult legal issue.

Focuses on 'rights' (権利).

彼は家族との時間を優先するために、昇進を断った。

In order to prioritize time with his family, he turned down a promotion.

〜ために (in order to).

人命救助を最優先事項とし、全力を挙げて捜索にあたる。

Treating life-saving as the top priority, we will devote all our efforts to the search.

Formal '〜とし' (treating as) and '〜にあたる' (to engage in).

短期的な利益を優先する経営姿勢が、長期的には仇となった。

A management stance that prioritized short-term profits backfired in the long run.

Idiom '仇となる' (to backfire/become a foe).

この制度は、社会的弱者の支援を優先的に行うことを目的としている。

This system aims to preferentially provide support to the socially vulnerable.

Uses '社会的弱者' (socially vulnerable) and '優先的に'.

伝統の継承と革新のどちらを優先すべきか、葛藤が続いている。

The conflict continues over whether to prioritize the succession of tradition or innovation.

Noun '葛藤' (conflict/struggle).

国家の安全保障を優先する立場から、輸出規制が強化された。

From a standpoint of prioritizing national security, export regulations were strengthened.

Formal '〜立場から' (from the standpoint of).

彼は論理より直感を優先する傾向があり、それが彼の独創性の源だ。

He tends to prioritize intuition over logic, which is the source of his originality.

Uses '独創性の源' (source of originality).

環境保護を優先するあまり、地元の産業が衰退してしまった。

By prioritizing environmental protection too much, local industries declined.

Verb '衰退する' (to decline/wither).

個人のプライバシーと公共の利益、どちらが優先されるべきか議論が絶えない。

The debate never ends over whether individual privacy or public interest should be prioritized.

Passive '優先される' + '議論が絶えない' (debate never ceases).

倫理的ジレンマにおいて、何をもって優先順位を決定すべきかは哲学的な命題である。

In an ethical dilemma, what should determine the order of priority is a philosophical proposition.

Uses '命題' (proposition) and '何をもって' (by what means).

当該企業は、債権者への配当を最優先する法的義務を負っている。

The company in question bears a legal obligation to prioritize dividends to creditors.

Legal terminology: '当該' (the said/concerned), '債権者' (creditor), '法的義務' (legal obligation).

グローバルな競争下では、意思決定の迅速化を優先せざるを得ない局面も多い。

Under global competition, there are many situations where one has no choice but to prioritize the speeding up of decision-making.

〜せざるを得ない (have no choice but to).

事象の緊急性と重要性をマトリックス化し、リソースを最適に優先配分する。

Matrix the urgency and importance of events and optimally prioritize the allocation of resources.

Uses 'マトリックス化' and '最適に優先配分'.

既存の秩序を優先する保守的な層と、変革を求める進歩的な層の対立が先鋭化している。

The conflict between the conservative class, which prioritizes the existing order, and the progressive class, which seeks change, is intensifying.

Advanced vocabulary: '秩序' (order), '先鋭化' (intensification/becoming acute).

特定の価値観を絶対視し、それを他者に優先させる行為は、多様性の否定につながりかねない。

The act of treating a specific set of values as absolute and prioritizing them over others could lead to the denial of diversity.

〜につながりかねない (could lead to - negative outcome).

災害時における情報の選別と、発信の優先順位付けは、被害の拡大を防ぐ鍵となる。

The screening of information and the prioritization of its dissemination during a disaster are key to preventing the spread of damage.

Uses '選別' (screening/sorting) and '発信' (dissemination/transmission).

自己実現を最優先する生き方が、現代社会においてどのような意味を持つのか考察する。

I will examine what meaning a way of life that prioritizes self-actualization has in modern society.

Uses '自己実現' (self-actualization) and '考察する' (to consider/examine).

Colocações comuns

優先順位をつける

最優先する

優先的に進める

利益を優先する

感情を優先する

家族を優先する

納期を優先する

スピードを優先する

歩行者を優先する

自分を優先する

Frases Comuns

優先席

— Priority seating on public transport. Reserved for those in need.

優先席を譲る。

優先順位

— Order of priority. A ranking of tasks or items.

優先順位が高い。

優先権

— Right of priority. Often used in legal or official contexts.

優先権を主張する。

最優先事項

— Top priority item. The single most important thing to do.

これが今日の最優先事項だ。

優先搭乗

— Priority boarding. A service for frequent flyers or families.

優先搭乗を利用する。

優先交渉権

— Exclusive right to negotiate. A business term for first-look rights.

優先交渉権を獲得する。

優先度

— Degree of priority. A measure of how important something is.

タスクの優先度を確認する。

優先株

— Preferred stock. A type of stock with priority over common stock.

優先株を発行する。

優先案内

— Priority guidance/service. Used in theme parks or customer service.

予約者を優先案内する。

優先入場

— Priority entry. Getting into a venue before the general public.

優先入場券を買う。

Frequentemente confundido com

優先する vs 有線 (Yuusen)

Same pronunciation, but means 'wired' (e.g., wired internet). Written with different kanji: 有線.

優先する vs 郵送 (Yuusou)

Similar sound, but means 'to send by mail'. Written as 郵送.

優先する vs 優勢 (Yuusei)

Similar sound and kanji, but means 'superiority' or 'having the upper hand' in a competition.

Expressões idiomáticas

"安全第一"

— Safety first. Though not using the word 'yuusen', it is the ultimate expression of prioritization.

工事現場では安全第一だ。

Common

"後の祭"

— Too late. Used when you failed to prioritize the right thing until it was over.

今さら後悔しても後の祭りだ。

Idiom

"二の次"

— Secondary. Putting something in the second place (deprioritizing it).

遊びは二の次だ。

Common

"背に腹は代えられない"

— Necessity knows no law. Having to prioritize survival/essentials over pride.

背に腹は代えられないので、この仕事を優先する。

Proverb

"立て板に水"

— Fluent speech. While not about priority, it's a high-level idiom for communication.

彼の説明は立て板に水だ。

Literary

"一石二鳥"

— Kill two birds with one stone. A way to prioritize tasks that solve multiple problems.

この方法は一石二鳥だ。

Common

"急がば回れ"

— Slow and steady wins the race. Prioritizing the safe path over the fast one.

急がば回れで、確認を優先しよう。

Proverb

"取捨選択"

— Selection and rejection. The act of choosing what to prioritize and what to discard.

情報を取捨選択する。

Formal

"本末転倒"

— Putting the cart before the horse. Prioritizing the wrong thing.

手段のために目的を忘れるのは本末転倒だ。

Common

"公私混同"

— Mixing public and private. Failing to prioritize professional duties over personal ones.

公私混同は避けるべきだ。

Formal

Fácil de confundir

優先する vs 重視する

Both involve 'importance'.

'Yuusen' is about order/sequence (doing first), while 'Juushi' is about the degree of value (thinking highly of).

正直さを重視する (Value honesty) vs 仕事を優先する (Prioritize work).

優先する vs 尊重する

Both involve 'respecting' something.

'Sonzou' is to respect rights or opinions, while 'Yuusen' is to put one thing before another.

他人の意見を尊重する (Respect others' opinions).

優先する vs 優先的

Adjective vs Verb.

'Yuusen suru' is the action; 'Yuusenteki' describes the manner of the action.

優先的に扱う (Treat preferentially).

優先する vs 先んじる

Both mean 'to go before'.

'Sakinjiru' is more literary and often means to beat someone to a goal.

他社に先んじて発売する (Release ahead of other companies).

優先する vs 大切にする

Both mean something is important.

'Taisetsu ni suru' means to cherish or take care of; 'Yuusen' is about strategic order.

古い時計を大切にする (Cherish an old watch).

Padrões de frases

[Noun] を優先します。

勉強を優先します。

[Noun A] より [Noun B] を優先する。

仕事より家族を優先する。

[Noun] を優先的に [Verb]。

この仕事を優先的に終わらせる。

優先順位をつける。

タスクに優先順位をつける。

[Noun] が優先される。

安全が優先される。

[Noun] を最優先事項とする。

人命救助を最優先事項とする。

〜を優先するあまり、〜。

スピードを優先するあまり、ミスが増えた。

〜を優先せざるを得ない。

利益を優先せざるを得ない局面だ。

Família de palavras

Substantivos

優先 (Priority)

優先順位 (Priority Order)

最優先 (Top Priority)

優先権 (Priority Right)

Verbos

優先する (To prioritize)

優先させる (To make/let prioritize)

Adjetivos

優先的な (Preferential)

Relacionado

重視 (Importance)

優位 (Superiority)

先取 (Preemption)

先決 (Prior decision)

優遇 (Preferential treatment)

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Como usar

frequency

Highly frequent in professional and public settings.

Erros comuns

Using 'に' for the object. → 〜を優先する
In Japanese, you prioritize the object directly. 'に' is for destination or target, not the object of prioritization.
Pronouncing 'yuu' as 'yu'. → ゆうせん (long yuu)
A short 'yu' changes the word's rhythm and can make it harder to understand.
Confusing '優先' and '重視'. → Depends on context.
Use '優先' for order/time and '重視' for general importance/value.
Flipping the order with 'より'. → Less important より More important を優先する
If you say 'Work yori Play wo yuusen,' you are prioritizing play. Don't mix them up!
Using it for trivial things. → 先に〜する
Saying 'I prioritize eating this grape' sounds unnaturally formal. Use 'saki ni' for small things.

Dicas

Priority Seats

Always look for the '優先席' sign. Even if you are tired, it's polite to leave them for those who need them most.

Priority Order

In a Japanese office, always confirm '優先順位' with your boss to avoid working on the wrong task.

Particle Check

Don't say 'A ni yuusen'; say 'A wo yuusen'. The object is direct!

Kanji Breakdown

Learn '優' (superior) and '先' (ahead) separately to help you remember the meaning of the compound.

Polite Refusal

Use '〜を優先したいので...' to politely decline an invitation by explaining your priority.

Compound Nouns

Master '最優先' and '優先順位' as they are extremely common in written Japanese.

Train Announcements

Listen for the melody of 'yuu-se-n-se-ki' on trains to improve your pitch accent recognition.

Gentle Superiority

Remember that '優' also means 'gentle.' True priority in Japan often involves being gentle to others.

Adverbial Use

Using '優先的に' makes you sound very professional and fluent in a business setting.

Focus

Use '優先する' when you want to show that you are focusing your energy on one specific goal.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Think of a 'You' (優) who is 'Senior' (先) and gets to go first. You-Senior = Yuusen.

Associação visual

Visualize a 'Priority Seat' sign on a Japanese train. The blue and white icons of an elderly person or a person with a cane are inseparable from the word 'Yuusen' in Japan.

Word Web

Train seats Business tasks Emergency triage First place Superiority Time management Choices Values

Desafio

Try to identify three things in your life right now that you should 'yuusen suru'. Write them down as: '[Thing] を優先します'.

Origem da palavra

The word is a Sinitic (kango) compound. '優' (yuu) historically meant 'actor' or 'gentle,' but evolved to mean 'superior' or 'excellent.' '先' (sen) has always meant 'before' or 'ahead.'

Significado original: To be superior and ahead of others.

Japonic (Sino-Japanese compound).

Contexto cultural

Be careful when telling others what to prioritize. Using '〜を優先してください' (please prioritize...) is polite, but '〜を優先しろ' (prioritize...!) is very aggressive and rude.

In English, 'prioritize' can sometimes sound cold or overly corporate. In Japanese, 'yuusen suru' is standard for both personal and professional life.

The 'Eisenhower Matrix' is often taught in Japanese business seminars as a way to 'yuusen jun'i wo tsukeru'. Studio Ghibli films often feature characters who must 'yuusen suru' their duties over their desires (e.g., Chihiro in Spirited Away). Japanese government slogans often use '国民の安全を最優先' during crises.

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Business Meeting

優先順位を決めましょう
納期を最優先します
このタスクは優先度が低いです
リソースを優先的に配分します

Public Transport

優先席を譲る
お年寄りを優先する
優先搭乗のアナウンス
優先通路を通る

Personal Life

家族を優先する
自分磨きを優先する
健康を第一に優先する
趣味を後回しにする

Emergency

人命を最優先する
救急車を優先する
避難を優先してください
安全確認を優先する

Shopping/Services

会員を優先する
予約者を優先案内する
先着順を優先する
優待券を利用する

Iniciadores de conversa

"仕事で一番優先していることは何ですか？ (What do you prioritize most at work?)"

"忙しい時、どうやって優先順位をつけていますか？ (When you're busy, how do you set your priorities?)"

"人生で最も優先すべきものは何だと思いますか？ (What do you think should be prioritized most in life?)"

"仕事とプライベート、どちらを優先するタイプですか？ (Are you the type to prioritize work or your private life?)"

"日本の電車で優先席を譲ったことがありますか？ (Have you ever given up a priority seat on a Japanese train?)"

Temas para diário

今日の最優先事項を３つ書いてください。 (Write down your top three priorities for today.)

昔と今で、優先するものがどう変わりましたか？ (How have your priorities changed from the past to now?)

もし時間が無限にあったら、何を一番優先したいですか？ (If you had infinite time, what would you want to prioritize most?)

「効率」と「楽しさ」、どちらを優先して生活したいですか？ (Do you want to live prioritizing 'efficiency' or 'fun'?)

最近、何かを後回しにして後悔したことはありますか？ (Is there anything you regretted putting off recently?)

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

Yes, you can prioritize a person, such as '子供を優先する' (prioritizing children). It is also used for 'priority seating' for specific groups.

'最優先' (sai-yuusen) means 'top priority' or 'absolute priority,' whereas '優先' is just 'priority.' Use '最優先' for emergencies.

Yes, but it sounds a bit more serious or logical than 'saki ni suru.' Use it when you want to emphasize your decision-making.

The object you prioritize takes 'を'. If you compare, use 'より' for the less important thing.

It is '優先席' (yuusenseki). You will see this in all Japanese trains and buses.

Yes, '優先' is a noun. For example, '優先順位' (priority order).

It is an adverb meaning 'preferentially' or 'with priority.' Example: '優先的に処理する' (Process with priority).

Not exactly, but young people might say things like '〜を1番にする' (make ~ number one) instead.

Yes, like '君を優先する' (I prioritize you), but it might sound a bit like a business contract if not said with emotion!

You can say '他に優先すべきことがあります' (Hoka ni yuusen subeki koto ga arimasu).

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