first among equals: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘first among equals’ mean?
The idiom first among equals is used to describe someone who has a higher status or authority compared to others in a group, even though they are technically equal in rank or position.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "king of birds" refers to the bird that is considered the most powerful, dominant, or superior among other birds.
An idiom meaning an individual or thing that is the most impressive or influential among others in a given field or situation.
The idiom "in the lead" means to be in a leading or winning position, often in a competition or race.
The idiom "in the front row" means to be in a prominent position or to have a key role in a situation or event.
The idiom "high and mighty" means that someone is arrogant, haughty, or acting superior to others. It refers to someone who thinks they are better or more important than everyone else.
The idiom "head and shoulders" means to be significantly better or superior compared to others in a particular area or aspect.
The idiom "hands down" means easily or without any doubt, typically used to describe a situation where one option or person is clearly better than the others.
Supremacy Unveiled
The idiom "first among equals" is used to describe a person who holds a position of leadership or authority within a group but is still considered an equal to the other members. It implies that the person possesses certain qualities or abilities that set them apart from the rest, making them the most prominent or influential member of the group.
The origin of this idiom can be traced back to ancient Rome, where it was used to describe the role of the Emperor in the Roman Senate. The phrase "primus inter pares" in Latin translates to "first among equals" and was used to denote the position held by the Emperor, who, while having greater authority, was still seen as an equal among the senators. This concept of leadership within a group while maintaining equality has been adopted and adapted in various contexts over the years.
In contemporary usage, "first among equals" is often used in political settings to describe a leader or a head of state who maintains a level of equality and collaboration with their colleagues, despite holding a higher position. It signifies that while they may have more power or influence, they still value and respect the opinions and contributions of their peers. This idiom can also be applied to other contexts such as business, sports teams, or any group where there is a designated leader who functions as an equal member.
The idiom "first among equals" carries an underlying message of balance and humility. It suggests that a true leader is one who not only holds power but also listens to and respects the perspectives of others. It emphasizes the importance of cooperation, teamwork, and collective decision-making within a group or organization. By emphasizing equality, it promotes a more inclusive and democratic approach to leadership, where no one person is superior but rather possesses certain qualities that make them the first among equals.
When we use the idioms "come first", "first up", "first of all", and "king of all one surveys" in relation to the concept of "first among equals", we can gain a deeper understanding of the nuances of this idiom.
The idiom "come first" is often used to refer to being prioritized or given priority over others. In the context of "first among equals", it can signify that the person in the leadership position is the one who is given priority in decision-making and is often the first to be consulted or approached for guidance. Despite being an equal member of the group, their role as a leader sets them apart and makes them the first one to be considered.
"First up" is an idiom that is commonly used to describe the first person or thing in a sequence or order. When applied to the concept of "first among equals", it can suggest that the leader is the first to be acknowledged or recognized within the group. Their position as the "first" among the equals sets them apart and establishes their role as the leader.
The idiom "first of all" is often used to introduce the most important or primary point or idea. In the context of "first among equals", it can indicate that the leader is the first and most significant member of the group. Their role as the "first" establishes their authority and influence over the other members, while still being considered an equal to them.
The idiom "king of all one surveys" is a variation of the phrase "king of all one surveys", which means to be in control or have power over everything in a certain domain. In the context of "first among equals", it can symbolize that the leader has a significant amount of influence and control within the group. They are seen as the "king" or most powerful member, despite still being considered an equal to the others.
The idiom "first among equals" encompasses a range of meanings and interpretations, making it a versatile and widely used expression. It signifies the unique position of a leader who holds authority while still being considered an equal member of the group. By exploring related idioms such as "come first", "first up", "first of all", and "king of all one surveys" in relation to "first among equals", we can further understand the dynamics of leadership and the complexities of interpersonal relationships within groups.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "first among equals" can be used in a sentence:
- 1. The president of the organization is often considered the first among equals in the board of directors.
- 2. As team captain, she was the first among equals, leading her teammates by example.
- 3. The professor, being highly respected by his peers, was seen as the first among equals in the academic department.
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