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Definitions

above all

[uh-buhv awl] / əˈbʌv ˈɔl /
ADVERB
most importantly
Synonyms
WEAK
chiefly especially importantly in particular mainly most of all mostly primarily principally supremely
Antonyms
WEAK
lastly

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But above all, Khartoum is a city of graves.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 12, 2026

"Let's join forces for a strong, secure and, above all, united Europe," he added.

From Barron's • Apr. 12, 2026

Carter feared conflict above all and even opposed sanctions.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

But their chief of staff, Lt Gen Eyal Zamir, has said his objective is to disarm Hezbollah, and that what was needed now above all was "persistence and patience".

From BBC • Mar. 13, 2026

But above all else, he should abstain from seizing the property of others; for men forget the death of their father more quickly than the loss of their patrimony.

From "The Prince" by Niccolò Machiavelli