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.

And for some countries tackling things that are much more elemental to their own population's existence have to take precedence over worrying about financial crimes in wealthier countries.

From BBC • Apr. 18, 2026

But Epstein talk has definitely been on the back burner in recent weeks, with the war in Iran especially taking precedence.

From Slate • Apr. 10, 2026

A negative correlation, like the one seen now, indicates fears of inflation are dominating, while a positive correlation would suggest growth risks are taking precedence.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 17, 2026

Chemotherapy and immunotherapy didn’t work, she said, and doctor appointments, therapy and insurance issues took precedence over home repairs.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 16, 2026

He told her that he didn’t have enough police officers to cover two parades, back-to-back, and that the president’s event took precedence.

From "Votes for Women!" by Winifred Conkling

Vocabulary lists containing precedence

"The Odyssey" by Homer, Books 1–7

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Antigone

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Trumps

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