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Definitions

precedence

[pres-i-duhns, pri-seed-ns] / ˈprɛs ɪ dəns, prɪˈsid ns /
NOUN
highest in rank; first in order
Synonyms
STRONG
antecedence earliness lead precedency precession preeminence preexistence preference primary priority rank seniority superiority supremacy
WEAK
anteposition prevenience previousness
Antonyms
STRONG
subservience
WEAK
inferiority last lowest

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In Greek tragedy, the gods have the last word, but here the question becomes whether individuals’ rights should take precedence over a ruler’s edict.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 12, 2026

From a retirement perspective — while acknowledging that market returns are not guaranteed — reducing stress, risk and tax complexity should take precedence over marginal financial gains.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 1, 2026

For the tables below, outright weekly wins take precedence over ties and total points - and always have done, not just because that's the only way Chris would be on top at the moment!

From BBC • Jan. 29, 2026

Eswar Prasad: I haven’t been entirely surprised because I could see that there are certain economic prerogatives of the current administration that seemed to take precedence over many other considerations.

From Barron's • Jan. 22, 2026

More recent events, other cultural imperatives have taken precedence.

From "Cosmos" by Carl Sagan