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Boxer briefs
Boxer briefs
from Wikipedia
A model wearing boxer briefs.

Boxer briefs (sometimes spelled boxer-briefs or called tight boxers, trunks, also known as A-Fronts) are a hybrid type of men's undergarment which are long in the leg, similar to boxer shorts, but tight-fitting like briefs. They emerged as a style in the 1990s and are commonly worn for sports and as every-day underwear.

Etymology

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The term derives from the elasticated shorts worn by participants in the sport of boxing.[citation needed]

Boxer briefs are also called "trunks" in the United Kingdom and Australia - not to be confused with the term referring specifically to the shorter variant of the garment.[1]

History

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Boxer briefs were once commonly thought to have been pioneered by designer John Varvatos during his 1990–1995 stint at Calvin Klein as head of menswear design.[2] However, the style was available much earlier, as designed by Giorgio Armani and as worn by Richard Gere in the 1980 film American Gigolo. Made famous by a series of 1992 print ads featuring Mark "Marky Mark" Wahlberg,[2][3] they have been called "one of the greatest apparel revolutions of the century".[2] Of their creation Varvatos said in 2010, "We just cut off a pair of long johns and thought, this could be cool..."[2]

Design

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The boxer brief design provides form-fitting coverage for the midsection from the waist to the thighs and are worn on the waist. They are usually made of a combination of cotton and spandex, polyester, or a soft, woven flannel material. Boxer brief designs can have either a keyhole fly, button (snap) front, pouch, or no fly at all. The waistband is usually a separate band of elastic material, often in a contrasting color to the main material. The elastic band often has the name of the manufacturer printed on it. There may also be additional elastic sewn around the bottom end of the thigh portion of the garment. Some boxer briefs have stitching on the rear to outline the buttocks and avoid a central seam. Boxer briefs are commonly used in athletics instead of, or in addition to, a jockstrap, but are common for everyday use as well. A variant that reaches to the knee or near it is marketed by Jockey as "midway briefs", and is also sold by other companies. Another variant are boxer briefs that have shorter leg sections than the standard type, called "trunk briefs" or "trunks".[4]

Possible effect on male fertility

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Some studies have suggested that tight underpants like boxer briefs and high temperature are not optimally conductive for sperm production. The testicles are outside the body for cooling because they operate for sperm production at a slightly lower temperature than the rest of the body, and boxer shorts allow the testicles to operate within the required temperature range. The compression of the genitals in boxer briefs, briefs, thongs, etc. may cause the temperature to rise and sperm production to fall. There is a similar theory regarding testicular cancer risk.[5] Other sources dispute this theory. A study in the October 1998 Journal of Urology, for example, concluded that underwear type is unlikely to have a significant effect on male fertility.[6]

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References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Boxer briefs are a hybrid style of men's that combines the longer leg coverage of with the snug, supportive fit of traditional , offering a balance of comfort, mobility, and containment while minimizing chafing and bunching. This design typically features an elastic waistband, a contoured pouch for support, and inseams ranging from 3 to 6 inches, making them suitable for everyday wear, , and formal attire under slimmer pants. The style emerged in the early 1990s as part of Calvin Klein's menswear line, with designer credited for pioneering the form during his tenure at the brand from 1990 to 1995. Boxer briefs gained widespread popularity in 1992 through Calvin Klein's provocative advertising campaign, which featured rapper and model posing in the underwear to highlight its sleek, modern appeal. This campaign, photographed by , targeted urban youth and rap culture, positioning boxer briefs as a symbol of contemporary and sex appeal, and quickly propelled sales while influencing broader fashion trends like visible waistbands with low-rise . Since their introduction, boxer briefs have become the dominant choice in men's , surpassing both loose boxers and traditional in due to their versatility and features. They are commonly constructed from breathable, stretchy fabrics such as cotton-elastane blends or moisture-wicking synthetics like modal and , which enhance durability, softness, and odor resistance for all-day wear. Variations include athletic versions with anti-microbial treatments for and longer-leg styles for added , reflecting ongoing innovations in response to consumer preferences for functionality and style.

Origins and Terminology

Etymology

The term "boxer briefs" is a portmanteau derived from "," referring to loose-fitting, knee-length underwear inspired by the elastic-waist trunks worn by boxers, and "," denoting snug, legless undergarments that provide close support. This linguistic fusion emerged to describe a hybrid style that blends the leg coverage of boxers with the fitted contour of briefs, offering a mid-thigh length for enhanced mobility and containment. The foundational term "boxer shorts" originated in the 1920s, when Jacob Golomb, founder of the sportswear company , invented elastic-waisted trunks in 1925 as a more flexible alternative to the leather-belted pants previously used by prizefighters, allowing greater during bouts. These "boxer" trunks directly influenced the naming of civilian underwear adapted from attire, marking the first widespread use of the "boxer" descriptor in undergarments. The specific term "boxer briefs" emerged in 1990 alongside the style developed by designer during his tenure at , where he created a form-fitting, mid-length option to bridge the gap between traditional boxers and briefs. While similar hybrid styles appeared earlier, the term gained prominence with this design. Related terminology, such as "trunks," evolved as a precursor from the same 1920s boxing trunks, later applied to shorter variants of boxer briefs that maintain a snug fit while reducing leg length.

Early Concepts

The development of boxer briefs as a hybrid undergarment drew from earlier styles that balanced coverage, support, and mobility in men's . In the , union suits emerged as a foundational one-piece garment combining a and drawers into a single knit piece, providing full-body coverage while allowing some freedom of movement through their form-fitting yet non-restrictive design. Patented in as the "emancipation union under flannel" for women's dress reform, the style was quickly adopted by working-class men by the for practical warmth and hygiene during labor-intensive activities. These suits represented an early tight-loose hybrid, with close-fitting torsos and looser leg portions that influenced later bifurcated designs. Into the early , men's bifurcated drawers—loose-fitting, divided undergarments with separate leg sections—evolved as a direct precursor, offering greater ventilation and ease compared to one-piece suits while maintaining modesty under or . Typically made from knitted , , or , these drawers varied in length to match outerwear, with shorter versions for and longer ones for , emphasizing comfort during daily wear and light activity. This bifurcated structure laid groundwork for segmented leg coverage in future hybrids, bridging the gap between full suits and standalone bottoms. The 1920s introduction of boxer shorts by Jacob Golomb, founder of Everlast, marked a shift toward mobility-focused designs tailored for athletes, featuring a loose fit with an elastic waistband to replace restrictive leather belts in boxing trunks. These shorts prioritized freedom of movement, contrasting with the emerging tight styles of the 1930s and 1940s, when Arthur Kneibler at Cooper's Inc. (later Jockey) invented the modern brief in 1934, inspired by form-fitting French swimwear. Launched as the Jockey Y-front in 1935, the brief offered contoured support with a Y-shaped fly and legless design, selling out rapidly and highlighting a demand for snug alternatives that underscored the need for a midpoint between loose boxers and minimal briefs. Mid-20th-century experiments further hinted at combined features, such as the athletic supporter (), originally invented in 1874 by C.F. Bennett of the to protect cyclists from chafing but evolving through the with added pouches and waistbands for broader sports use. Similarly, shorter "boy shorts" or knit athletic trunks, popularized in the for active wear, blended brief-like support with partial boxer leg length, testing hybrids for everyday and sporting contexts without full commercialization.

Historical Development

Invention and Introduction

The modern boxer brief was invented in 1990 by , then head of menswear design at , who created a hybrid garment that merged the longer leg coverage of traditional with the snug, supportive fit of . This design addressed common complaints about loose boxers bunching under clothing and the limited coverage of briefs, offering a fitted that extended to mid-thigh for improved comfort and aesthetics. Varvatos's innovation drew from earlier concepts but refined them into a contemporary style using soft blends, an elastic waistband for secure positioning, and a contoured pouch for anatomical support, marking a shift toward more functional menswear intimates. Calvin Klein launched the boxer brief commercially in 1992 through a provocative advertising campaign photographed by Herb Ritts, featuring rapper Mark Wahlberg—then known as Marky Mark—posing in the underwear with model Kate Moss. The black-and-white ads, displayed on billboards and in magazines, emphasized the garment's sleek form and Wahlberg's muscular physique, sparking widespread media attention and controversy over their suggestive nature, which ultimately propelled the style to global popularity. This campaign not only revitalized Calvin Klein during a period of financial strain but also positioned boxer briefs as a fashionable essential, bridging high-end design with everyday wear. Initial sales reflected the campaign's impact, with Calvin Klein's underwear line—including the new boxer briefs—generating over $70 million annually by the mid-1990s, transitioning the style from a niche offering to a mainstream preference that began outselling traditional boxers. Retailers like reported brisk demand, selling tens of thousands of dollars worth in the first weeks of the launch, as consumers embraced the boxer brief's blend of support and coverage. By 1995, the garment had captured a significant , influencing competitors to adopt similar hybrids and solidifying its role in reshaping men's trends.

Evolution and Adoption

Following the initial launch of boxer briefs in , the garment experienced significant evolution in the , particularly through advancements tailored for athletic applications. Brands like introduced performance technologies such as Climalite, a moisture-wicking system developed in the early that utilized synthetic blends to draw sweat away from the skin and promote rapid drying, enhancing comfort during . This shift extended to seamless construction techniques, which minimized irritation and improved fit under activewear, positioning boxer briefs as a preferred option for sports and exercise. In the 2010s, boxer briefs transitioned from niche athletic wear to mainstream everyday apparel, fueled by the broader athleisure movement that emphasized versatile, comfortable clothing blending sport and casual styles. The rise of athleisure in this decade prioritized functionality and ease, encouraging men to adopt supportive undergarments like boxer briefs for daily use beyond workouts. By 2015, market data showed boxer briefs capturing nearly 40% of the U.S. men's underwear sector, valued at $2.7 billion, reflecting their growing dominance among consumers seeking reliable support and coverage. E-commerce and models further propelled their global adoption during this period, with brands like MeUndies launching in 2011 as the first online underwear subscription service, offering patterned and comfortable options delivered directly to customers. This approach revolutionized accessibility, bypassing traditional retail and enabling rapid scaling; by 2019, MeUndies had sold over 10 million pairs, contributing to the widespread proliferation of boxer briefs internationally. Into the 2020s, sustainability became a key driver in boxer briefs' development amid rising environmental concerns over textile waste and synthetic production. Manufacturers increasingly incorporated recycled polyester (rPET), derived from post-consumer plastic bottles, which requires less energy and water than virgin polyester while diverting waste from landfills—each ton of recycled textile averting approximately one ton of CO2 emissions. This eco-friendly update addressed criticisms of traditional synthetics' contributions to pollution, with brands applying rPET in various styles to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers without compromising durability or comfort. As of 2024, boxer briefs continued to dominate the global men's underwear market, holding approximately 34% share and contributing to a sector valued at over USD 78 billion, with projected growth at a CAGR of 5.7% through 2034 driven by sustainable innovations and e-commerce expansion.

Design and Construction

Basic Structure

Boxer briefs feature a hybrid design that combines the supportive brevity of traditional briefs with the extended leg coverage of boxer shorts, typically characterized by an inseam length of 3 to 6 inches (8 to 15 cm), which extends coverage to the upper or mid-thigh for reduced chafing and improved mobility compared to shorter styles. This inseam provides a balanced fit that sits between the minimal leg exposure of briefs and the fuller thigh enclosure of classic boxers, offering moderate support during everyday activities. A key structural element is the contoured pouch at , designed to cradle and support the genitals with added room and separation from the body, often incorporating a double-layer construction for enhanced comfort and to prevent shifting. Many designs include a fly opening for convenience, with common variants such as a vertical fold-over, horizontal, or side-entry style, sometimes secured by buttons, snaps, or left open for quick access. This pouch-fly combination distinguishes boxer briefs by prioritizing anatomical fit over the looser, less structured front of traditional boxers. The is typically constructed from wide elastic material, often sewn-on and featuring branded for aesthetic appeal, positioned low on the hips to ensure a secure, non-slip hold that contours to the body without digging in or rolling down during movement. This placement promotes a snug yet flexible fit around the , balancing retention and . Seams in boxer briefs are strategically placed to enhance durability and comfort, with flatlock stitching commonly used along the legs, sides, and rear to create smooth, low-profile joins that minimize skin and bulk, setting them apart from the more voluminous seams found in traditional . A central or diamond-shaped may also be incorporated at the for added seam reduction and flexibility, further preventing bunching.

Materials and Fabrics

Boxer briefs traditionally utilize blends, typically consisting of 95% and 5% , which provide and stretch for everyday comfort. This combination allows air circulation to reduce moisture buildup while the ensures a flexible fit that moves with the body. 's natural fibers absorb sweat effectively, making it a staple for non-active wear. Synthetic options, such as modal derived from tree pulp, offer enhanced softness and superior moisture management, gaining prominence in boxer briefs during the 2000s. Modal's semi-synthetic structure wicks away up to 50% more moisture than , maintaining dryness and smoothness against the skin. Its silky texture reduces , positioning it as a premium alternative for prolonged wear. Performance fabrics in boxer briefs often feature nylon-polyester mixes treated with antimicrobial agents, tailored for activewear to combat and sweat during physical activities. These synthetics excel in quick-drying and durability, with providing strength and enhancing wicking properties. The antimicrobial treatments, commonly silver-based or chemical infusions, inhibit for extended freshness. In the 2020s, emerging materials like have risen for their eco-friendliness in boxer briefs, utilizing a that requires less water and pesticides than . is naturally and breathable, supporting sustainable production while offering a soft, feel. Similarly, Tencel () has gained traction for its qualities and biodegradability, derived from pulp in a closed-loop process that minimizes environmental impact. Tencel's smooth fibers resist allergens and provide excellent moisture regulation, appealing to sensitive skin users.

Variations and Styles

Fit and Sizing Options

Boxer briefs typically follow standard sizing ranges from small (S) to extra-extra-large (XXL), calibrated to measurements that generally span 28 to 46 inches across brands. For instance, small corresponds to a 28-30 inch , medium to 31-34 inches, large to 35-38 inches, extra-large to 39-42 inches, and XXL to 43-46 inches, ensuring a snug yet comfortable fit around the midsection. Many manufacturers, such as , extend this to 2XL for waists up to 44-46 inches, accommodating a broader standard range. Athletic fits, designed specifically for individuals with broader thighs (often 23 inches or more in circumference, measured 12 inches below the waistband), are available in sizes S to XL and provide additional room in the leg area without compromising support in the core pouch structure. Fit types for boxer briefs vary to suit different preferences and outerwear pairings, with classic styles featuring a mid-rise that sits 2-3 inches above the bones for balanced coverage. Low-rise options position the lower, typically below the hips, making them ideal for pairing with low-cut or to prevent visible lines. Trunk-style boxer briefs offer a shorter leg length, ending mid-thigh or higher with an inseam of about 3-5 inches, providing a compact, square similar to the core boxer brief design but with reduced fabric for warmer climates or tighter clothing. Proper measurement for boxer briefs involves assessing waist circumference at the narrowest point above the hip bones, just below the natural line, using a flexible held snug but not tight, allowing space for one finger underneath. Hip measurements around the fullest part of the glutes help evaluate fit for those with varying -to-waist proportions, particularly in athletic or plus-size builds, to avoid riding up or bunching. Inseam adjustments are guided by thigh length, with standard 5-7 inch inseams covering one-third of the for most wearers, while taller individuals may opt for 8-9 inches and shorter ones for 3-5 inches to maintain proportional coverage from the apex downward. In the 2020s, as of 2023, inclusivity trends in boxer briefs have driven brands to expand sizing beyond traditional limits, offering extended options up to 5XL to accommodate diverse body shapes including big-and-tall demographics through wider waistbands and adaptive openings, with 5XL typically fitting waists of 48-52 inches or more depending on the brand. This shift reflects broader body-positivity initiatives, with manufacturers like Amazon Essentials and King Size providing multipacks in sizes L-5XL to promote accessibility and comfort for varied physiques.

Specialized Types

Athletic variants of boxer briefs incorporate compression technology, typically using or Lycra blends to provide muscle support and reduce fatigue during physical activities. These designs emerged as part of broader innovations in the and , with moisture-wicking features to enhance by minimizing chafing. For example, products from Aero Tech Designs feature light compression in a second-skin fit, aiding athletes in sports such as running and cycling by stabilizing muscles without restricting movement. Thermal types of boxer briefs are engineered for cold-weather conditions, often featuring fleece linings for insulation and panels that resist wind penetration to maintain body heat. These adaptations draw from base-layer technologies, using materials like polyester fleece to trap warmth while allowing breathability during outdoor pursuits. Brands such as Norfin offer insulated options with moisture-wicking properties, ideal for activities in sub-zero temperatures, where the fleece provides a soft barrier against chill without adding bulk. Medical and adaptive variants prioritize seamless construction to accommodate skin sensitivities or recovery needs, such as post-surgical support. These designs often eliminate tags and seams to prevent irritation, using soft, fabrics suitable for conditions like eczema or . For prostate-related concerns, specialized options include adjustable pouches for scrotal support, recommended by urologists following procedures like to reduce swelling and improve comfort during healing. UFM Medical's boxer briefs, for instance, feature patented drawstrings for customizable fit, aiding incontinence management and post-operative recovery. Fashion hybrids of boxer briefs emphasize aesthetic elements through patterned prints or luxury options, blending functionality with stylistic appeal for everyday or intimate wear. These differ from performance-oriented types by focusing on visual , such as subtle motifs or premium textures that enhance undergarment visibility in fitted . Mulberry or silk-blend fabrics offer a smooth, breathable drape prized for their qualities and sophisticated feel, as seen in collections from brands like SilkSilky.

Health and Physiological Effects

Comfort and Support

Boxer briefs provide ergonomic support through contoured pouches that cradle and secure the genitals, minimizing shifting and during physical activities or daily movement. This design, often featuring a U-shaped or darted pouch with internal panels, maintains anatomical positioning without constriction, allowing for natural contouring that enhances stability and reduces the need for adjustments. Breathability in boxer briefs is bolstered by integrated ventilation panels, such as zones in high-heat areas, which promote and prevent overheating by facilitating . These features, combined with moisture-wicking fabrics, reduce sweat retention compared to traditional , as the extended leg coverage and pouch separation limit buildup in sensitive areas. For instance, synthetic blends with elements have been noted in to outperform styles in sweat management during extended wear. Chafe prevention is achieved through smooth, flatlock seams that lie flat against the skin, minimizing along the thighs and , while the fabric's stretch recovery—enabled by elastane or blends—ensures the garment retains its shape and fit after repeated washing and wear. This combination of seamless construction and resilient elasticity supports prolonged comfort without bunching or riding up. User surveys and market analyses from the 2020s highlight a strong preference for boxer briefs due to their superior comfort and support, with the style capturing approximately 33-34% of the men's by 2022-2024, outpacing other types for its balance of coverage and freedom. This popularity stems from feedback emphasizing reduced discomfort over looser boxers or shorter in everyday and active scenarios.

Potential Impact on Fertility

A 2018 study conducted by researchers at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, involving 656 men attending a , found that those who primarily wore tighter styles of , such as or , exhibited 25% lower concentrations compared to men who wore looser . This difference was attributed to elevated scrotal temperatures caused by the closer fit of tighter , which can impair by disrupting the optimal cooler environment required for production. The study also noted 17% lower total counts in the tighter group, highlighting a potential physiological mechanism linking fit to parameters. However, subsequent research has provided counterarguments, suggesting that any effects may not translate to long-term impairment, particularly if tighter styles like boxer briefs are worn loosely. A 2016 preconception of 501 couples found minimal differences in parameters across types and no association between wearing tighter and time-to-pregnancy, indicating that impacts on actual might be negligible. Reviews in the , including a 2020 analysis of modifiable factors, have similarly concluded that while tight correlates with reduced and concentration in , these changes do not consistently affect overall outcomes, with motility often remaining within normal ranges for conception. Such findings emphasize that type is a minor factor compared to broader elements like diet and exercise. For individuals concerned about , experts recommend alternating boxer briefs with looser styles, such as traditional boxers, to mitigate potential heat-related effects, as parameters have been shown to improve reversibly upon switching to less constrictive options. This approach allows for the support benefits of boxer briefs during daily activities while periodically reducing scrotal temperature. Existing studies, including the seminal 2018 Harvard research, rely heavily on self-reported preferences, which introduce and limit causal inferences. As of 2025, researchers continue to call for more longitudinal studies tracking habits and fertility over time to clarify long-term risks, given the cross-sectional nature of current evidence.

Cultural and Commercial Impact

The popularity of boxer briefs experienced a significant boom in the , driven by high-profile celebrity endorsements that transformed the style from a relatively undergarment into a normalized staple. Mark Wahlberg's appearance in Calvin Klein's 1992 , showcasing the form-fitting , introduced boxer briefs to a broad audience and sparked a cultural shift toward accepting hybrid underwear styles as both functional and stylish. This momentum continued with endorsements like David Beckham's 2012 H&M campaigns, which echoed Wahlberg's impact by emphasizing athletic builds and modern masculinity, further embedding boxer briefs in . By the mid-2010s, the style had evolved from an edgy alternative to a conventional choice, capturing approximately 40% of the U.S. men's market as consumers favored its blend of support and coverage over traditional boxers or briefs. In the 2020s, boxer briefs have gained traction through gender-neutral strategies, aligning with growing cultural emphasis on inclusivity and fluid identities. Brands have repositioned the style as versatile for all genders, promoting it in campaigns that feature diverse models and challenge binary norms, which resonates particularly with younger demographics seeking self-expressive apparel. Visibility in contemporary media, including the HBO series Succession (2019–2023), has normalized depictions of boxer briefs in everyday and high-stakes scenarios, reinforcing their status as unremarkable yet essential wardrobe items. Global sales reflect this sustained demand, with the boxer briefs segment valued at around $8.9 billion in 2024 within the broader men's market, fueled by millennial and Gen Z preferences for comfortable, performance-oriented designs that prioritize and . These generations, which drive a significant portion of apparel spending, adoption through and influences, favoring options that offer superior fit without restrictive traditions. Regionally, uptake is notably higher in urban centers of the U.S. and compared to traditional Asian markets, where rural areas cling to conventional and loose styles, though urban shows accelerating acceptance amid rising disposable incomes and Western fashion influences. As of 2025, trends continue with increased focus on sustainable materials in major .

Marketing and Brands

Calvin Klein played a pioneering role in popularizing boxer briefs through bold advertising campaigns that emphasized sensuality and minimalism, beginning with its 1982 launch of men's underwear (traditional briefs) featuring photographer Bruce Weber's provocative imagery of models in white briefs. The brand's strategy transformed underwear into a statement, with ongoing celebrity-endorsed efforts like the 2024 campaign, which showcased the actor in classic styles against urban backdrops to evoke desire and accessibility. These campaigns have sustained 's dominance, generating billions in sales by positioning boxer briefs as essential wardrobe pieces for modern masculinity. Competitors have carved niches by blending luxury appeal with innovation. markets its boxer briefs as an entry into affordable luxury, using soft cotton blends and signature branding in multipacks priced accessibly for everyday consumers while evoking sophistication. Similarly, Saxx Underwear differentiates through its patented BallPark Pouch technology, introduced in 2006, which features a hammock-like support structure to reduce chafing and enhance comfort, appealing to active men via channels. The shift to has accelerated boxer briefs' commercial growth, with brands adopting subscription models and influencer partnerships to drive (DTC) sales. Bombas, founded in 2013, expanded its one-purchase-one-donation model to underwear in 2021, offering subscription options for recurring deliveries that emphasize comfort and social impact, resulting in sustained customer loyalty. Social media influencers have further boosted DTC visibility, with endorsements on platforms like promoting brands' ergonomic designs and fabrics to millennial and Gen Z audiences, increasing online conversions by up to 30% in targeted campaigns. Sustainability initiatives have become a key angle, attracting eco-conscious buyers. Patagonia introduced recycled boxer briefs in 2022, such as the Sender style made from 89% recycled , highlighting reduced environmental impact through material transparency and ethical sourcing to align with outdoor enthusiasts' values. This approach not only differentiates in a crowded market but also reinforces among consumers prioritizing .

References

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