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Glite Dictionary
precedented

precedented

6.9
An action supported by an earlier example or decision
  • adjective
  • /ˈprɛsɪdɛntɪd/
  • Formal
translation icon : precedente
  • In the Samoan local response to colonialism, ceremonial exchange must be seen as a culturally precedented but changeable instrumentality, one that has been effectively counterpoised to Western cultural domination.

Examples

  • The decision was precedented by a similar case that helped set the guidelines.

  • Her actions were precedented by a ruling from the previous year, which made them acceptable.

  • The policy changes were precedented by several successful initiatives in other departments.

Synonyms

established
vsprecedented
4.2

Known and accepted because it has existed for a long time

is justified by an earlier example or rule rather than by long use

Antonyms

unprecedented
235 6.3

Has never happened before

How Precedented

precedented
  • Formal
6.9
novel
72 5.1
unprecedented
235 6.3

Surface Forms

precedented positive

Morphology

precedented = precedent (transparent) = precedent + ed

Formed from the noun 'precedent' with the adjectival/past-participial suffix '-ed' meaning 'having or characterized by an earlier example', which is straightforward for learners.

Etymology

Precedented comes from parts that mean 'before' and 'to go': pre- means 'before' and the ced in precede means 'to go'. So something precedented has happened 'before', and that earlier example is used to justify it.