precedent

5 definitions • 13 examples

an action, situation, or decision that has already happened and can be used as a reason why a similar action or decision should be performed or made:

There are several precedents for promoting people who don't have formal qualifications.

Some politicians fear that agreeing to the concession would set a dangerous precedent.

the way that something has been done in the past that therefore shows that it is the correct way:

Would it be breaking with precedent for the bride to make a speech?

a decision about a particular legal case that makes it likely that other similar cases will be decided in the same way:

The judgment on pension rights has established/set a precedent.

a previous action, situation, or decision that can be used as a reason or example for a similar action or decision at a later time:

[ C ] Conditions have changed enormously, and the past is not much of a precedent.

[ U ] Precedent indicated that a change would take place sooner rather than later.

a previous action or decision that can be used as a reason for allowing something else:

The ruling can serve as a precedent to challenge other similar cases.

A judgement against the fund could set a precedent for compensation payments to more of its 6,000 investors.

This is an experiment without precedent in economic history.

a bad/dangerous/good precedent This law sets a very dangerous precedent for all businesses.

create/establish/provide a precedent

a legal precedent

base sth on/follow a precedent