What is a Precedent? Boost Your SAT Vocabulary
Learn the meaning, history, and usage of ‘precedent’ to improve your SAT score. Discover how this important word applies to legal decisions, personal choices, and even your college journey. Includes examples, synonyms, antonyms, and common mistakes to avoid.
Imagine you’re the first person in your family to attend college. Your success could set a precedent for future generations.
But what exactly does precedent mean, and why is it important for your SAT vocabulary? Let’s find out.
Word type: Precedent is a noun.
Meaning: A precedent is an earlier event or action that is regarded as an example or guide to be considered in similar circumstances.
It’s something that serves as a model or justification for subsequent situations.
Word history: The term precedent comes from the Latin word praecedere, which means to go before.
It entered the English language in the fifteenth century, initially referring to something that comes before in order or importance.
Over time, it evolved to specifically mean an earlier example or legal decision used as a guide.
Antonyms: Some antonyms for precedent include subsequent, following, and ensuing.
Synonyms: Synonyms for precedent include model, example, pattern, standard, and prototype.
Examples use in sentences: Here are a few ways to use precedent in a sentence:
The Supreme Court’s decision set a precedent for future cases involving freedom of speech. By allowing her child to stay up late on a school night, Sarah worried she might be setting a bad precedent.
The company’s new policy of unlimited vacation days set a precedent in the industry. Common errors in use: One common mistake is confusing precedent with president.
While they sound similar, a president is a leader, while a precedent is a prior example. Another error is using precedence instead of precedent.
Precedence means the condition of being more important or earlier in order. Understanding and correctly using the word precedent can significantly boost your SAT score and enhance your overall vocabulary.
Remember, every time you encounter a new situation, consider whether there’s a precedent that might guide your actions or decisions.
By doing so, you’ll not only use the word correctly but also apply its concept in real life.
