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Translate files Antecedent
/ˌæn.tɪˈsiː.dənt/
Meaning & Definition
noun
A thing or event that existed before or logically precedes another.
The antecedent to the modern computer was the early mechanical calculator.
In grammar, a word, phrase, or clause that is replaced by a pronoun or other substitute later in the sentence.
In the sentence 'John lost his keys', 'John' is the antecedent of 'his'.
In logic, the first half of a hypothetical proposition.
In the statement 'If it rains, then the ground will be wet', the antecedent is 'it rains'.
adjective
Preceding in time or order.
The antecedent events set the stage for the unfolding drama.
Etymology
From Latin 'antecedens', from 'ante' meaning 'before' and 'cedere' meaning 'to go'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
antecedent conditions
Conditions that exist prior to a certain event
antecedent event
An event that occurs before something else
antecedent reasoning
Reasoning based on previous conditions or events
Related Words
preceding
Existing or occurring before something else.
previous
Existing or occurring before something else.
progenitor
An ancestor or parent; one who originates or creates.