Precedence vs. Precedent – Which is Correct?

The correct phrase is takes precedence, meaning to be considered more important or to come before something else. The word precedent, while a valid noun, has a different meaning—an earlier event or action that serves as an example or guide—and is not used in the idiom “takes precedence.”

Precedence or Precedent – Which is Correct?

When you want to convey that something is more important or should come first, the correct phrase to use is “takes precedence.” The word precedence (pronounced PREH-suh-dens) is a noun meaning the condition of coming before in order or importance. On the other hand, precedent (pronounced PREH-suh-dent) is also a noun, but it refers to an earlier event or action that is regarded as an example or guide for future similar circumstances, particularly in legal contexts. The confusion often arises due to their similar spellings and pronunciations, but their meanings and appropriate usages are distinct.

For another common linguistic challenge, understanding the nuances between proceed vs. precede can further sharpen your vocabulary.

Word	Part of Speech	Meaning	Example
Precedence	Noun	The condition of coming before in order or importance; priority.	Safety takes precedence over speed in this project.
Precedent	Noun	An earlier event or action that is regarded as an example or guide for future similar circumstances.	The judge’s ruling set a new legal precedent.

How to Use Precedence

The word precedence is primarily used in the idiom “takes precedence,” or sometimes “has precedence,” to indicate that something is more important and therefore should be dealt with first. It conveys a sense of priority or superiority in rank or order. This usage is common in formal and professional contexts, such as legal, business, or governmental discussions, but also appears in everyday language when discussing priorities.

Example 1: In emergency situations, human life always takes precedence over property.

Example 2: The CEO clarified that customer satisfaction will always take precedence over short-term profits.

Example 3: During the meeting, the agenda item about budget allocation was given precedence.

What are the different forms of Precedence?

Precedence is primarily used as a singular noun. There isn’t a common plural form, as it refers to a concept rather than countable items. It can sometimes be used with verbs like “give” or “have” (e.g., “give precedence to,” “have precedence over”).

Etymology of the word Precedence

The word precedence comes from the Old French précédence, meaning “priority,” which itself derives from the Latin praecedentia, meaning “the act of going before.” This Latin root is related to praecedere, meaning “to go before.” Its linguistic history clearly emphasizes the concept of coming first in order or importance.

How to Use Precedent

The word precedent is a noun that refers to an earlier event, decision, or case that serves as an example or guide for subsequent situations. It is most frequently encountered in legal contexts, where judicial decisions often establish precedents that influence future rulings. However, it can also be used in broader contexts to describe any established pattern or rule based on past events. It can also function as an adjective, though less commonly, meaning “prior” or “previous” (e.g., “a precedent condition”).

Example 1: The Supreme Court’s landmark decision set a powerful precedent for civil rights cases.

Example 2: We must be careful with this new policy, as it could establish a dangerous precedent.

Example 3: There is no historical precedent for a leader to serve more than two terms in this position.

What are the different forms of Precedent?

The plural form of precedent is precedents. As an adjective, it is rarely used in modern English, but the adjectival form is also “precedent.” Related terms include “unprecedented” (meaning without precedent, never done or known before).

Etymology of the word Precedent

The word precedent originates from the Old French précédent, meaning “going before,” and ultimately from the Latin praecedentem, the present participle of praecedere, “to go before.” While sharing a common root with precedence, precedent evolved to specifically denote something that has gone before and now serves as a guiding example.

Related Concepts

Understanding the distinction between precedence and precedent highlights the importance of precise vocabulary in English. Both words derive from the concept of “going before,” but have diverged in meaning. Precedence refers to priority or superiority in ranking, whereas precedent refers to an influential example from the past. Recognizing these subtle differences is crucial for clear and effective communication, especially when discussing legal matters, policy, or establishing priorities.

Examples from Media and Literature

• “In times of crisis, national security often takes precedence over individual liberties.” – A common theme in political commentary.
• “The judge ruled that this new evidence did not establish a sufficient precedent to overturn the previous verdict.” – Legal drama dialogue.
• “Her commitment to artistic integrity always took precedence over commercial success.” – From a biography of an artist.
• “We must ensure that our actions do not set a negative precedent for future generations.” – Environmental policy discussion.
• “The needs of the community should always take precedence when planning urban development.” – From a city planning document.

Practice Exercises

Choose the correct word to complete the sentence.

1. The company’s ethical guidelines state that honesty always takes (precedence / precedent) over profit.
2. The lawyer argued that the previous court decision was a binding (precedence / precedent).
3. During a fire drill, safety procedures always take (precedence / precedent).
4. The new policy has no historical (precedence / precedent) in our organization.
5. When scheduling, urgent client requests usually take (precedence / precedent) over internal meetings.

Answer Key

1. precedence
2. precedent
3. precedence
4. precedent
5. precedence

Precedence Synonyms

Synonym	Definition
Priority	The fact or condition of being regarded or treated as more important than others.
Superiority	The state of being superior to something else in quality or importance.
Primacy	The fact of being primary, pre-eminent, or most important.

Precedent Synonyms

Synonym	Definition
Example	A thing characteristic of its kind or illustrating a general rule.
Model	A thing used as an example to follow or imitate.
Standard	A level of quality or attainment.
Criterion	A principle or standard by which something may be judged or decided.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: Can “precedent” ever be used in the sense of “priority”?
No, “precedent” cannot be used in the sense of “priority” or “coming first in importance.” That meaning is exclusively reserved for the word “precedence,” especially in the idiom “takes precedence.”

Question 2: Is “unprecedented” related to “precedence” or “precedent”?
“Unprecedented” is related to “precedent.” It means “never done or known before,” indicating that there is no prior example or guide (no precedent) for something.

Question 3: How can I remember the difference between “precedence” and “precedent”?
A helpful mnemonic: “Precedence” sounds like “priority” (both start with “P” and have a similar ‘s’ sound). “Precedent” sounds like “example” (think ‘dent’ as in a mark left by an example). Or, remember that “takes precedence” is the correct phrase for priority, and “precedent” is for a past example, often legal.

Conclusion

In summary, while both precedence and precedent are valid nouns stemming from a common root meaning “to go before,” their contemporary uses are distinct. The correct phrase to express priority or greater importance is always takes precedence. Precedent, on the other hand, refers to an earlier event or ruling that serves as an example or guide. Mastering this distinction enhances clarity in your writing and speech. Pro Tip: Using the wrong word can undermine your credibility, especially in professional or academic contexts. Always double-check when these similar-sounding words arise.