precedent

prec-e-dent · noun, adjective

imported

Definitions

noun, adjective

  1. 1.

    (noun) An earlier event or action that is regarded as an example or guide to be considered in subsequent similar circumstances.

  2. 2.

    (noun) A previous case or legal decision that may be or must be followed in subsequent similar cases.

  3. 3.

    (adjective) Preceding in time, order, or importance.

Forms

plural: precedents

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    set a precedent — To establish a pattern or standard for the future
  • •
    without precedent — Having no previous example; unprecedented
  • •
    break with precedent — To do something differently from how it has been done before

Related words

Antonyms: exception, novelty
See also: example, previous, standard
Synonyms: example, model, pattern, standard

Etymology

From Latin praecedent-, present participle of praecedere ("to go before"), from prae- ("before") + cedere ("to go").