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precedent

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Definition of precedent

noun

Pronunciation: /ˈprɛsɪd(ə)nt/

  • an earlier event or action that is regarded as an example or guide to be considered in subsequent similar circumstances:there are substantial precedents for using interactive media in training
  • Law a previous case or legal decision that may be or ( binding precedent) must be followed in subsequent similar cases:we hope to set a legal precedent to protect hundreds of miles of green lanes

adjective

Pronunciation: /prɪˈsiːd(ə)nt, ˈprɛsɪ-/

  • preceding in time, order, or importance:a precedent case

Origin:

late Middle English: from Old French, literally 'preceding'

precedent in other Oxford dictionaries

Definition of precedent in the US English dictionary

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