foremost - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
foremost Word Meanings
- most important
- leading position
- at the front
foremost Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
foremost Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈfɔːməʊst/
US
/ˈfɔrmoʊst/
foremost Word Etymology
fore- = before + most = the highest degree; Origin: Old English → Middle English → Modern English. Imagine someone standing proudly at the front of the line, signifying their importance and leading others.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Foremost is an adjective that signals priority or prominence: the most important, leading, or most visible in a group. It can describe someone who literally stands at the front or an abstract priority, such as a foremost concern. In use, you might say the foremost expert, the foremost issue, or take the foremost position in a parade. It carries a sense of prestige and authority, stronger than simply saying important or primary. Learners should note that foremost is typically before the noun, and it can sound formal or literary in modern speech.
Usage Reminders
- - Place foremost before the noun to show priority
- - Use it for leading figures, issues, or positions
- - It sounds formal or literary in modern English
- - Do not use with verbs directly; rephrase
- - Common collocations: the foremost expert, the foremost issue
Common Misconceptions
- Confuses with frontmost when referring to literal front placement
- Assumes foremost always means 'the most important' in every context
- Mixes up with forefront or front-facing phrases
- Thinks it can replace most important in casual speech
- Uses it with verbs without rephrasing
Thinking Differences
Foremost often implies prestige and priority beyond 'primary' and is used before the noun. Learners may misuse it with physical frontness or miss its nuance in casual speech. In headlines or policy writing it adds weight and authority.
Learning Tips
- Place foremost before the noun to show priority
- Use it for leading figures, issues, or positions
- It sounds formal or literary in modern English
- Do not use with verbs directly; rephrase
- Common collocations: the foremost expert, the foremost issue
- Consider context to decide if most important or leading fits better
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'foremost' used correctly?
A.She was the youngest in the family.
B.The teacher arrived late to class.
C.He was the foremost expert in the field.
D.The book was placed in the back of the shelf.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'foremost'?
A.Secondary
B.Inferior
C.Prime
D.Trivial
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'foremost'?
A.Important
B.Behind
C.Superior
D.Primary
Step 5: Mastery
How would you use 'foremost' in a real-life context?
A.Talking about the least popular book genre.
B.Explaining the importance of leadership skills in the workplace.
C.Discussing the different types of weather patterns.
D.Describing a traditional dance from a specific culture.
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