American Dictionary

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Definition precedent in American English

precedent noun

noun
/ˈpresɪdənt/
1

an action or event in the past that is used as an example or reason for a present action or event

Example

There are good precedents for this sort of cooperation between organizations.

Example

This is disturbing news and totally without precedent.

Example

Arab states condemned the plan, regarding it as setting a dangerous precedent.

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2

a decision by a court on which future decisions are based

Example

It would not be right for this case to be treated as a precedent.

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Example

The English legal system is a composite of legislation and judicial precedent.

Synonyms and related words
Definition precedent in American English