Precedent

Definition

Precedent refers to an earlier event or action that is regarded as an example or guide to be considered in subsequent similar circumstances. It is most commonly associated with legal decisions that serve as a guide for future cases.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈprɛsɪdənt/
• Respelling: PRES-i-dənt (with "PRES" as in "pressure," "i" as in "sit," and "dənt" as in "dentist")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈprɛsɪdənt/
• Respelling: PRES-i-dənt (similar to American English, with "PRES" as in "pressure," "i" as in "sit," and "dənt" as in "dentist")

In both dialects, "precedent" is pronounced with the primary stress on the first syllable, "PRES." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, clearly articulating the word with emphasis on the "PRES" part.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word "praecedentum", the neuter nominative singular form of "praecedens", the present participle of "praecedo" which means "to go before". In a legal context, it specifically refers to previous decisions or examples that guide future decisions.

Derivatives

• Precedential
• Precedently
• Unprecedented
• Precedence
• Precedent-setting

Synonyms

• Example
• Model
• Standard

Antonyms

• Following
• Aftermath
• Successor

Usage

"Precedent" is prominently used in the legal field to describe past decisions by courts that serve as a model or guide for future cases. A precedent ensures consistency in the application of the law. However, outside of legal contexts, it can also refer to any previous action, decision, or pattern that influences subsequent actions.

Related Terms

• Jurisprudence
• Case law
• Ruling
• Adjudication
• Stare decisis (Latin term meaning "to stand by things decided")

Detailed Definition

Noun

• A legal decision or form of proceeding serving as an authoritative rule or pattern in future similar or analogous cases.
• Example: "The judge's ruling was based on a legal precedent set by a higher court."

• An action or decision that can be used as support for subsequent actions or decisions of a similar kind.
• Example: "The company's generous donation set a positive precedent for other corporations to follow."

• Any act, decision, or case that serves as a guide or justification for subsequent situations.
• Example: "The president's speech set a precedent for future addresses on the subject."