Meaning & Definition of word "Precedent"
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Precedent
/ˈprɛsɪdənt/
noun:
- 1. An earlier event or action that is regarded as an example or guide to be considered in subsequent similar circumstances.
- Example: The court's decision set a legal precedent that influenced future rulings on similar cases.
- 2. The fact of having previously occurred or existed.
- Example: There is no precedent for the government to intervene in private businesses under such a context.
- 3. A person or thing that comes before another in time.
- Example: This action has no historical precedent in the company's operations.
adjective:
- 1. Prior in time, rank, or importance; preceding.
- Example: The precedent agreement was deemed more significant than the new proposal.
Etymology
From Middle English, from Latin 'praecedentem', meaning 'going before'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
legal precedent:
A prior case that serves as an authority for deciding a similar case.
set a precedent:
To establish a decision that may influence future actions or decisions.
follow precedent:
To act according to a previous case or established rule.
Related Words
precede:
To come before something in time.
preceding:
Existing or occurring before in time.
Slang Meanings of precedent
Meaning: Setting the bar
Example Sentence: His success set the bar for what we should aim for.
Meaning: Leading the charge
Example Sentence: Her approach is leading the charge for change in our organization.