precede
To happen, go, or exist before something else in time, order, or rank. It is frequently used to describe a sequence of events where one action sets the stage for the next.
Examples
3 of 5A brief introductory video will precede the main presentation.
A brief introductory video will precede the main presentation.
The signing of the international treaty was preceded by years of intense diplomatic negotiations.
The signing of the international treaty was preceded by years of intense diplomatic negotiations.
I think your brother's graduation will precede mine by just one week.
I think your brother's graduation will precede mine by just one week.
Synonyms
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of the prefix 'pre-', which means 'before' (like in 'prefix' or 'pre-order'). The root 'cede' means 'to go'. So, to precede is 'to go before.'
Quick Quiz
The heavy thunder was ______ by several bright flashes of lightning.
Correct!
The correct answer is: preceded
Examples
A brief introductory video will precede the main presentation.
everydayA brief introductory video will precede the main presentation.
The signing of the international treaty was preceded by years of intense diplomatic negotiations.
formalThe signing of the international treaty was preceded by years of intense diplomatic negotiations.
I think your brother's graduation will precede mine by just one week.
informalI think your brother's graduation will precede mine by just one week.
In chronological terms, the Bronze Age preceded the Iron Age in most ancient civilizations.
academicIn chronological terms, the Bronze Age preceded the Iron Age in most ancient civilizations.
A comprehensive risk assessment must precede any major capital expenditure.
businessA comprehensive risk assessment must precede any major capital expenditure.
Synonyms
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
take precedence over
take precedence over
precede one's arrival
precede one's arrival
preceded by a period of
preceded by a period of
Often Confused With
To precede means to go before in time or order, while to proceed means to begin or continue a course of action.
Usage Notes
The word is typically used as a transitive verb, meaning it takes a direct object (e.g., A precedes B). It is more common in formal and academic contexts than in casual conversation.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse the spelling with 'proceed' or incorrectly use a preposition like 'to' after it; remember that 'A precedes B' is the correct structure.
Memory Tip
Think of the prefix 'pre-', which means 'before' (like in 'prefix' or 'pre-order'). The root 'cede' means 'to go'. So, to precede is 'to go before.'
Word Origin
Derived from the Latin 'praecedere', from 'prae' (before) and 'cedere' (to go).
Grammar Patterns
Quick Quiz
The heavy thunder was ______ by several bright flashes of lightning.
Correct!
The correct answer is: preceded
Related Vocabulary
Related Words
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