have/take precedence over
phrase
somewhat formal
: to be more important (than something else)
When it comes to making health care decisions, the patient's preference should take precedence.
—often + overThe safety of the children has/takes precedence over everything else.
Cite this Entry
“Have/take precedence over.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/have%2Ftake%20precedence%20over. Accessed 14 Mar. 2026.
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