Pronunciation: [kˈʌmz fˈɜːst] (IPA) 
The phrase "comes first" is spelled using the IPA phonetic transcription as /kʌmz/ /fɜːst/. The sound of the word "comes" is represented by the symbol /kʌmz/, which indicates the vowel "u" sound as in "mud" followed by the consonant sounds "m" and "z". Meanwhile, the sound of the word "first" is represented by the symbol /fɜːst/, which represents the vowel "ə" sound as in "bird" followed by the consonant sounds "r" and "st".
"Comes first" is an idiomatic expression that implies prioritization or precedence, often referring to when one thing or task takes precedence over others in terms of importance or order of completion. It suggests that a particular subject, activity, or individual is given the highest priority or given precedence in a sequence of events or a list.
In a general sense, "comes first" signifies the act of giving priority or significance to a specific matter or individual, emphasizing their importance above all others. It conveys the idea that the item or person in question is regarded as the most essential or principal element within a given context.
The phrase can also imply a sense of hierarchy or order, suggesting that certain factors should be considered before others. It denotes the idea of placing something at the top or beginning of a prioritized list or sequence, indicating its primary importance or prioritization.
Furthermore, "comes first" can also be used figuratively to describe an individual's priorities or personal values. In this sense, it refers to the things or principles in life that hold the utmost significance and are given precedence over other aspects. It conveys the notion that these particular values are fundamental and take priority in decision-making and daily actions.
The phrase "comes first" does not have a specific etymology as it is a combination of two separate words: "comes" and "first".
The word "comes" has Latin origins, specifically from the late Latin word "comes" meaning "companion" or "count". It was the title used for a Roman imperial courtier or high-ranking officer who often accompanied the emperor.
The word "first" comes from the Old English word "fyrst" which meant "foremost" or "earliest". It is derived from the Germanic language family.
When put together, "comes first" means something that is in the foremost or priority position. The etymology of each of these individual words gives us a better understanding of their origins, but the phrase as a whole does not possess a specific etymology.
