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 + over

The safety of the children has/takes precedence over everything else.

Examples of have/take precedence over in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Tudor announced before the game that, in Tottenham’s desperate state, the Premier League would take precedence over the Champions League — the one competition where Spurs have not been totally calamitous this term. — Elias Burke, New York Times, 11 Mar. 2026

Advertisement To Glenn, Liu, and Levito, such expressions take precedence over medals or standings. — Alice Park, Time, 22 Feb. 2026

In any case, let the genuine desire to learn and understand take precedence over defensiveness whenever possible. — Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 8 Feb. 2026

After all, when lovers of the cosmos come together in this Earth sign, tradition, courtship and long-term commitment take precedence over fleeting chemistry. — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 7 Jan. 2026