First among equals

Meaning

The most senior person in a group of equal rank.

Examples

The British Prime Ministership is a cabinet post, no different from his colleagues, but the position is always considered to be the first among equals.

Where did it originate?

Britain, 18th century. Often used to describe the British Prime Minister and his/her cabinet, although the first usage pre-dates that.

Where is it used?

Mostly Britain.

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About the Author

Gary Martin

Writer and researcher on the origins of phrases and the creator of the Phrase Finder website. Over the past 26 years more than 700 million of his pages have been downloaded by readers. He is one of the most popular and trusted sources of information on phrases and idioms.

First among equals