precedence

Language: en

🇺🇸 /ˈprɛsədəns/

📖 Definitions

  1. noun
    The condition of being considered more important than something else; priority in order, rank, or importance.; The right to preferential treatment or superior rank in a formal or ceremonial context.

🔗 Details

Word forms

uncountable

Collocations

take precedence overgive precedence toin order of precedencehave precedence overrank in precedence

Derivatives

precedeprecedentprecedingprecedentedunprecedentedprecedential

Synonyms

prioritypreferenceprimacypreeminencesuperiority

Antonyms

subordinationinferiority

Commonly confused

precedent
EN: 'Precedent' is a previous case or example that serves as a guide; 'precedence' is priority in rank or importance.
precedency
EN: 'Precedency' is an archaic/rare variant of 'precedence' and is rarely used in modern English.

Spelling tips

EN: Note the '-ence' ending (not '-ance'). Do not confuse with 'precedent', which has a different meaning and ending.

💬 Examples

  1. Safety should take precedence over speed in any construction project.

  2. The ambassador was given precedence over other guests at the state dinner.