set a precedent
idiom
: to decide something that will be used as an example or rule to be followed in the future
The ruling in the case is likely to set a precedent for how future cases are decided.
Examples of set a precedent in a Sentence
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The case could set a precedent for holding social media companies responsible for dangerous design decisions, after years of tech giants fending off lawsuits under Section 230, the law that shields them from liability for user content.
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Alexandra Banner, CNN Money, 18 Feb. 2026
Adams believes the outcome could set a precedent in Georgia, prompting prosecutors to more closely examine the responsibility of parents in such tragedies.
—Nakell Williams, CBS News, 16 Feb. 2026
The workers seek health insurance, fairer wages and protection of their online content — rights that could set a precedent for the industry.
—Jessica Hill, Los Angeles Times, 14 Feb. 2026
Swift’s acumen in turning a career setback into a defining achievement set a precedent that will reverberate in the industry for decades to come.
—Denise Warner, Billboard, 29 Jan. 2026
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Alexandra Banner, CNN Money, 18 Feb. 2026
Adams believes the outcome could set a precedent in Georgia, prompting prosecutors to more closely examine the responsibility of parents in such tragedies.
—Nakell Williams, CBS News, 16 Feb. 2026
The workers seek health insurance, fairer wages and protection of their online content — rights that could set a precedent for the industry.
—Jessica Hill, Los Angeles Times, 14 Feb. 2026
Swift’s acumen in turning a career setback into a defining achievement set a precedent that will reverberate in the industry for decades to come.
—Denise Warner, Billboard, 29 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for set a precedent
Cite this Entry
“Set a precedent.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/set%20a%20precedent. Accessed 23 Feb. 2026.
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