precedent
An earlier event or action that is regarded as an example or guide to be considered in subsequent similar circumstances.
In law, a legal precedent is a principle or rule established in a previous legal case that is either binding on or persuasive for a court or other tribunal when deciding subsequent cases with similar issues or facts.
Word relationships
- example: More general; 'precedent' implies a guiding or authoritative example, especially in legal or formal contexts.
- model: Something to be imitated, but 'precedent' carries a stronger implication of obligation or established practice.
Commonly confused with
- president: A 'president' is a person in charge; a 'precedent' is a past example that serves as a guide.
Word family
- precedential (adjective): Serving as a precedent or based on precedent.
Collocations
- set a precedent
- follow precedent
- break precedent
- binding precedent
- legal precedent
Example sentences
- "The judge's ruling set an important precedent for future cases involving digital privacy." In a legal context, referring to a past ruling.
- "Her decision to work remotely set a new precedent for flexibility within the company." In a general context, referring to an earlier example.
Memory hook
Think of a 'PRE'vious 'EVENT' that 'SENT' a message for how to act next. PRE-CEDENT. Previous event sent.
When not to use
Do not confuse with 'president' (the head of a country or organization). While both involve leading, 'precedent' is about an earlier example, not a person.
Fun facts
- The legal system based heavily on precedent is known as 'common law,' originating in England and adopted by many former British colonies, including the United States.
- The principle of 'stare decisis' (Latin for 'to stand by things decided') is the legal doctrine that obligates courts to follow historical cases when making a ruling on a similar case.
Related words
Explore more words
precede, subsequent, predecessor, customary, criterion, preside
Also appears in
Our English vocabulary app: FSRS spaced repetition, 5,000+ curated words across 119 topic groups, CEFR A1 to C2. Explore your mastery with the beautiful Vocabulary World feature.