in erster Linie
Translation
primarily, first and foremost, in the first place
Examples
Es geht hier in erster Linie um die Sicherheit.
This is primarily about safety.
Ich bin in erster Linie Lehrer, dann Autor.
I am first and foremost a teacher, then an author.
Grammar Patterns
in erster Linie ... sein/gehen to be primarily about ... / to be first and foremost ... This project is primarily about the money.
Similar Words
vor allem (above all), hauptsächlich (mainly), primär (primarily)
Etymology
Literally 'in the first (erster) line (Linie)'. It evokes the image of something being on the top line of a list of priorities.
Memory Tips
Think of a to-do list. What's on the 'first line' (in erster Linie) is the most important thing. This phrase highlights the top priority.