List of 426 Sets of Synonyms - How they Differ - Total of 2307 Words - 69

SYNONYMS: chief, principal, main, leading, foremost, primary, prime.
These adjectives refer to what is first in rank or in importance.

Chief applies to a person of the highest authority: a chief magistrate. Used figuratively, chief implies maximum importance or value: Her child was her chief joy.
Principal applies to someone or something of the first order in rank, power, or significance: the principal cellist in an orchestra; a principal source of entertainment.
Main applies to what exceeds others in extent, size, or importance: the main building on the campus; the main subject of conversation.
Leading suggests personal magnetism, a record of achievement, or suitability or capacity for influencing others: She is one of the leading physicians of the city.
Foremost is closely related to leading but more strongly emphasizes first position and the sense of having forged ahead of others: the foremost research scientist of the day.
Primary stresses first in the sense of origin, sequence, or development: attending primary school. It can also mean first in the sense of "basic" or "fundamental": The primary function of a house is to provide warmth and shelter.
Prime applies to what is first in comparison with others and to what is of the best quality: a theory of prime significance; prime veal; a prime Burgundy.