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.

“We try to interpret American law with American precedent based on American history,” the justice told Sauer.

From Slate • Apr. 1, 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

"This incident is a grave precedent and disregards the sensibilities of billions of people around the world, who during this week, look to Jerusalem," a statement from the patriarchate said.

From BBC • Mar. 29, 2026

“Maybe the numbers were manageable today, but the precedent is not,” Coffey said of the judgment.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 28, 2026

I guess with no precedent to go by, she wouldn’t really understand the concept of knocking.

From "The Marrow Thieves" by Cherie Dimaline