precedence

noun

ˈpre-sə-dən(t)s How to pronounce precedence (audio)
Definition of precedencenext
as in priority
the right to one's attention before other things considered less important his merchandise order takes precedence because we received it first

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of precedence Infantino attempted to frame his retreat as evidence of responsive leadership, arguing that unity must take precedence over division. — Clemente Lisi, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026 In many cities, the autonomy of drug users has taken precedence over nearly everything and everyone else, not least working-class families like Monsegur’s who must live alongside addicts and accept dystopian decay. — Michael Powell, The Atlantic, 30 July 2026 Advertisement The law, which was passed decades before the Federal Vacancies Reform Act (VRA) of 1998, takes legal precedence. — Philip Wang, Time, 30 July 2026 Congressional conversations around health care have largely moved on from the pandemic response, as issues ranging from the affordability of care to measles and vaccines take precedence. — Helen Branswell, STAT, 28 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for precedence
Recent Examples of Synonyms for precedence
priority
Noun
  • Toronto would, however, get priority over other contenders that could use a righty outfielder, such as the Los Angeles Dodgers.
    — Mitch Bannon, New York Times, 31 Aug. 2026
  • The financing follows a July 30 Presidential Determination that identified recovering critical materials already in circulation as a national defense and supply security priority.
    — Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 31 Aug. 2026
Definition of priority

Browse Nearby Words

preceded
precedence
precedences
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Cite this Entry

“Precedence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/precedence. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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