precedent

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.

As it happens, however, there is a direct precedent under U.S. law, well known to the drafters of the 14th Amendment, explaining that the demands of allegiance attach even to temporary or unlawful entrants.

From Slate • Apr. 2, 2026

Their reasoning appeared to largely rest on historical precedent: When stocks retreat due to a geopolitical shock, they often recover within a matter of weeks, if not days.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 30, 2026

"Invalidating lawfully obtained visas undermines confidence in our entire migration system and sets a dangerous precedent," she said.

From BBC • Mar. 26, 2026

“There’s no historical precedent in modern California history for a governor’s race with such a large field or such an amorphous field of candidates,” said longtime political observer Dan Schnur.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 26, 2026

Supreme Court precedent, that Hooks had charges against him dismissed in exchange for cooperation with authorities was information that the State was obligated to reveal to the defense.

From "Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson