precedent.

An earlier decision or event that serves as a guide or example for a later one.

Use it for

Words that belong together

• set a precedent
• binding precedent
• depart from precedent

On the page

The ruling set a precedent for disputes over digital records.

The committee found a precedent but judged the circumstances materially different.

Allowing the exception once may create a precedent for later requests.

Usage notes

Primary category: academic. In law, the authority of precedent depends on the court and legal system. Outside law, an earlier example can guide conduct without binding anyone. Singular: precedent; plural: precedents.