Translation guide
This English phrase is used to emphasize that something should be done first, before any other actions or considerations. In Japanese, this is expressed with adverbs and set phrases that indicate priority or 'first of all'.
The speaker wants to stress that a particular action or point takes precedence over everything else.
A common and natural phrase meaning 'above all else' or 'first and foremost'. It emphasizes that something is the top priority.
何よりもまず、安全を確保してください。
Before anything else, please ensure safety.
何よりもまず、彼女に謝るべきだ。
Before anything else, you should apologize to her.
The speaker is describing the very first step in a process or sequence of actions.
Literally 'before doing anything', this phrase clearly marks the first action in a sequence.
何をするよりも先に、手を洗ってください。
Before anything else, please wash your hands.
Literally 'firstly' or 'in the first place'. Used to list priorities or steps, but can also stand alone to mean 'before anything else'.
まず第一に、この問題を解決しなければならない。
Before anything else, we must solve this problem.
A slightly more emphatic and literary phrase meaning 'above all' or 'no matter what'. It conveys that nothing else should come before this.
何をおいても、家族の健康が一番大切だ。
Before anything else, family health is the most important.
Means 'first of all' or 'before anyone/anything else' in a temporal sense. Often used when someone acts quickly before others.
彼は真っ先に手を挙げた。
Before anything else, he raised his hand.
Simple adverb meaning 'first' or 'to start with'. Can be used in instructions or when listing steps.
まず、材料を準備します。
Before anything else, prepare the ingredients.