precedent

An earlier event or decision that provides an example for dealing with a similar situation.

• This decision sets a precedent.
• There is no precedent for a delay this long.
• We followed the precedent established by the previous manager.

How to use it: a precedent for something (This decision creates a precedent for future requests.)

Similar words: earlier example

Common phrases: set a precedent, follow a precedent, without precedent, establish a precedent

An earlier court decision used to help decide a later case with similar facts.

• The judge followed legal precedent.
• Her lawyer cited a precedent from an earlier case.
• The ruling created a new precedent for similar appeals.

Common phrases: legal precedent, binding precedent, cite a precedent