Precedence
/prɪˈsiːdəns/
Definitions
The right to come before others in importance, order, or rank.
/prɪˈsiːdəns/
The condition of being considered more important than others.
The president's speech took precedence over the scheduled news conference.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're waiting in line. Whoever got there first has *precedence*! It's about who gets to go first or who's considered most important in a situation.
👶 For kids: It's like when you have to line up at school. The people at the front of the line have precedence!
More Examples
Safety should take precedence over speed in any work environment.
In a formal setting, seniority often determines precedence.
How It's Used
"The legal precedence set in this case will impact future rulings."
"Establishing precedence in project timelines ensures timely completion."
"Protocol dictates the order of precedence for seating arrangements at the state dinner."
Idioms & expressions
take precedence
To be considered more important than something else.
"The safety of the children will always take precedence over the game."
order of precedence
A system that determines the relative importance or ranking of individuals or things.
"The order of precedence at the royal banquet was meticulously planned."
From Middle English *precedens*, from Old French *precedence* (from Latin *praecēdentia*, neuter plural of *praecēdēns*, present participle of *praecēdere* 'to go before').
Historically, the word was used in legal and ceremonial contexts to establish rank and prioritize actions.
Memory tip
Think of 'preceding' – something that goes before establishes precedence.
Practice
Word Origin
Root: praecedere