Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Definitions

precondition

[pree-kuhn-dish-uhn] / ˌpri kənˈdɪʃ ən /
NOUN
condition
Synonyms
STRONGEST
arrangement essential necessity prerequisite provision qualification requirement requisite stipulation
STRONG
article catch codicil contingency demand exception exemption kicker modification must must-have need postulate proviso reservation rule strings terms
WEAK
fine print sine qua non small print
Antonyms
STRONGEST
nonessential

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.

One precondition for a hike would be that the labor market would have to not only rebound but strengthen, Luzzetti noted.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 14, 2026

Azerbaijan sees the opening of regional communications as the main precondition for signing a comprehensive peace treaty with its rival.

From Barron's • Feb. 9, 2026

It is the precondition for any serious education.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 25, 2026

One really important form of social attention is so elemental to human life that it is the necessary precondition to survive.

From Salon • Feb. 27, 2025

The first argues that before Columbus discovered America in 1492 there was no clear-cut and well-established idea of discovery; the idea of discovery is, as will become apparent, a precondition for the invention of science.

From "The Invention of Science" by David Wootton

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.