prime
word
Definition
As an adjective, 'prime' usually means most important, best, or in the best stage of life or condition. In math, a prime number is a number greater than 1 that can only be divided exactly by 1 and itself.
Usage & Nuances
Common patterns: 'prime location', 'prime example', and 'in your prime'. In everyday English, it often sounds slightly formal or emphatic. In math, use 'prime number'; 'prime' alone is common when the context is clearly mathematical.
Example Sentences
Eleven is a prime number.
basic
She is still in her prime at forty.
basic
This store is in a prime location downtown.
basic
They sold the apartment fast because it's in a prime area.
natural
He's in his prime, so this is the perfect time for a career move.
natural
That's a prime example of why we need a backup plan.
natural