The idiom "first order of business" indicates the most important task or priority at hand that people must address before anything else. We use this phrase in work settings, meetings, or any situation that requires establishing an agenda or prioritizing tasks.

In short:

"First order of business" signifies the most crucial or immediate task to be addressed.

What Does "First Order of Business" Mean?

"First order of business" refers to the initial or most pressing task that you need to address or accomplish in a particular situation. It often implies a need for immediate attention or action. This expression is useful in both formal and informal settings, such as work meetings, events, or everyday conversations.

Let's dive into its core meanings and usage:

• People often use the phrase "first order of business" to prioritize tasks or actions in different situations.
• This expression assists in pinpointing the immediate or most important task at hand.
• Its versatility extends to both professional and casual scenarios, where establishing an initial course of action is necessary.

Where Does "First Order of Business" Come From?

The phrase "first order of business" is derived from the world of commerce and politics, where "order of business" is a formal agenda or sequence of activities to be undertaken. The phrase has since gained widespread use in various contexts, highlighting the task or issue that must be tackled first.

Historical Examples

"Reading minutes dispensed with, and first order of business resumed."

- Proceedings of the State Board of Equalization of Michigan, 1882

"I desire to move that we adjourn until 2:30 and that the first order of business be the report of the committee on resolutions."

- The American Food Journal, 1909

10 Examples of "First Order of Business" in Sentences

Here are some examples of the idiom in use:

• In line with the company's goals, addressing client concerns is our first order of business.
• Once we reach the campsite, our first order of business will be setting up the tents.
• Our first order of business in today's meeting is to discuss the budget cuts.
• Until then, organizing the team meeting remains our first order of business.
• Upon reaching home, her first order of business was to make a warm cup of tea.
• Implementing quality control measures to a tee is our first order of business to maintain our high standards.
• The first order of business in the house renovation was fixing the leaky roof.
• That's a wrap for today's session, but remember, tomorrow, our first order of business is to analyze the market trends.
• You need to step up your game, as leading this project will be your first order of business.
• Before starting the project, our first order of business was to assemble a capable team.

Examples of "First Order of Business" in Pop Culture

The phrase "first order of business" frequently appears in various media, often indicating the primary task or priority in a particular context.

Here's where you might encounter it:

• The phrase "First Order of Business" is a song by the hip-hop artist Baby Keem from the album The Melodic Blue.
• "His first order of business was to see if he could talk to the machine," is a quote from the 2011 book Take the Fourth by Jeffrey Walton.
• "The First Order" by Jeff Abbott is a thrilling novel that takes readers on a gripping journey through the world of espionage, conspiracy, and international intrigue.

Other/Different Ways to Say "First Order of Business"

There are numerous other expressions that convey a similar meaning to "first order of business."

Consider these alternatives:

• First priority
• Immediate task
• Main concern
• Top of the list
• Foremost duty
• The first thing to do
• Number one task
• Primary responsibility
• Urgent business
• Immediate concern

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "First Order of Business":

• What does "first order of business" mean?

"First order of business" refers to the most urgent or important task that needs to be addressed immediately.

• How can I use "first order of business" in a sentence?

You can use "first order of business" to indicate the primary task or concern in a scenario. For example, "Our first order of business in today's meeting is to finalize the project timeline."

• Where does the idiom "first order of business" come from?

"First order of business" originates from the fields of commerce and politics where it denotes the initial task in an agenda or list of tasks to be performed.

• Is "first order of business" used only in professional contexts?

No, while it is often used in work settings, "first order of business" can be used in any situation where tasks or activities need to be prioritized.

• Can "first order of business" refer to personal tasks?

Yes, "first order of business" can be used to indicate the most immediate or important personal task or goal.

• Does "first order of business" imply urgency?

Yes, "first order of business" often implies a task or action that requires immediate attention or prioritization.

• Is "first order of business" used globally?

Yes, while the phrase is English, the concept of prioritizing tasks or actions is understood and practiced universally across different cultures and languages.

• Can one use the phrase to denote a sequence of events?

Yes, "first order of business" can be used to indicate the first event in a sequence or agenda.

• Does "first order of business" always refer to the most important task?

Not always. While it often refers to the most important task, it can also denote the first task that needs to be addressed, which might not necessarily be the most important one.

• Can "first order of business" refer to non-task-related things?

Yes, "first order of business" can be used metaphorically to refer to any immediate concern or priority, not just tasks.

Final Thoughts About "First Order of Business"

The phrase "first order of business" emphasizes the importance of prioritization in managing tasks or responsibilities. It reminds us to tackle the most pressing issues first to ensure efficiency and effectiveness in our work or personal life.

Here's a quick recap:

• "First order of business" implies the need for prioritization and urgency in dealing with tasks or issues.
• It can be used in a variety of contexts, professional or personal, to indicate immediate tasks or concerns.
• While it often refers to the most important task, it can also denote the first item on the agenda, irrespective of its overall importance.

"First order of business" serves as a reminder that prioritizing and managing our tasks effectively can help us achieve our goals efficiently and reduce unnecessary stress.