adj (1)最初的 (first in time or order or development) [无comp][通常作attrib]： the～stages of the project 项目的最初阶段;(disease) be still in its～stage (病)仍然处于发病初期;The～infection of a cold lasts three days. 感冒初期的传染持续三天。～causes初始原因;～rocks 原生岩;〖同〗introductory，elementary;

(2)最重要的，主(首)要的，根本的 (first in importance， degree， or quality; chief) [通常作attrib]： the～meaning of a word 一个词的基本词义;the～reason for sth 某事的根本原因;A～cause of his failure is his laziness. 他失败的一个基本原因是懒惰。Your～duties are outlined in this job description. 你的主要职责列在这个工作说明里。Your safety is my～concern. 你的安全是我最关心的。be of～importance 最重要;～stress/accent 主重音;～colour 原基色;～industry 基础工业;〖同〗chief，main，principal，fundamental;

(3)初等教育的 (of or for elementary education) [无comp][作attrib]： a～school 小学(在英国学生一般为5-11岁;在美国学生一般为6-9岁);～teachers 小学教师;～education 初等教育;

n(美国选举的)预(初)选((in the US) preliminary election in which voters of each party nominate candidates for office， party officers， etc) [C] (= primary election);

→′primarily adv 主要地