C1nounformal5K

Precedent

UK /["/ˈpresɪdənt/"]/US /["/ˈpresɪdənt/"]/

Definition

an official action or decision that has happened in the past and that is seen as an example or a rule to be followed in a similar situation later

In simple words: An example from the past that helps decide future actions.

Examples

  • The court's decision set a precedent for how similar cases should be handled.
  • In law, a precedent is an earlier event or action that is regarded as an example or guide to be considered in subsequent similar circumstances.
  • There is no precedent for dealing with a situation like this in our company.
  • Setting a precedent can influence the behavior of others in future cases.
  • This unprecedented decision breaks with all precedent in environmental law.

Usage notes

Used mainly in legal or formal contexts. It helps justify decisions based on previous cases. Avoid in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

precedent + object

Memory hint

Think of 'precedent' as 'pre-set' rules for the future.

Collocations

  • bad
  • dangerous
  • terrible
  • serve as
  • have
  • create
  • without precedent
  • precedent for
  • bad
  • dangerous
  • terrible
  • serve as
  • have
  • create
  • without precedent
  • precedent for
  • bad
  • dangerous
  • terrible
  • serve as
  • have
  • create
  • without precedent
  • precedent for

Synonyms

  • tradition

Antonyms

  • following
  • subsequent
  • outlier

Common mistakes

  • Used incorrectly as a verb instead of a noun.
  • Confused with 'president' due to similar spelling.
  • Overused in informal speech where simpler terms would fit.