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Primaries Meaning in English

word · lemma: primary

ˈpɹaɪˌmɛɹiz/, /ˈpɹaɪmɝiz
PRY-muh-reez
pɹˈaɪməɹiz
pry-MUH-reez

Definition

‘Primaries’ are elections in which members of a political party choose their candidate for a later general election. It can also refer to the most basic or important elements of something, though this is less common.

Usage & Nuances

'Primaries' most commonly refers to political elections in the U.S., not used for general elections. Used almost always in the plural ('the primaries'). Singular 'primary' can mean 'main' or 'most important' in other contexts, but 'primaries' as elections is standard.

Example Sentences

Many people voted in the primaries this year.

basic

The primaries decide who will run for president.

basic

She campaigned hard during the primaries.

basic

After losing in the primaries, he supported his former rival.

natural

The primaries can get pretty heated, especially on TV.

natural

We're still months away from the primaries, so anything can happen.

natural