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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McConaughey’s strategy could set a precedent for how stars protect their brands in an era when AI can quickly replicate voices and likenesses without permission.
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Ana Gutierrez, Austin American Statesman, 14 Jan. 2026
This set a precedent for later executive branch independence in using force, most notably in Vietnam.
—Arthur I. Cyr, Chicago Tribune, 14 Jan. 2026
During a recent episode of the All-In podcast, cohost David Friedberg characterized the potential ballot initiative as more of an asset seizure—one that could be renewed beyond a year and set a precedent for similar ones elsewhere.
—Jason Ma, Fortune, 13 Jan. 2026
Approving this project could set a precedent that could allow other private projects to use public resources elsewhere, others said.
—Claudia Levens, jsonline.com, 16 Dec. 2025
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Ana Gutierrez, Austin American Statesman, 14 Jan. 2026
This set a precedent for later executive branch independence in using force, most notably in Vietnam.
—Arthur I. Cyr, Chicago Tribune, 14 Jan. 2026
During a recent episode of the All-In podcast, cohost David Friedberg characterized the potential ballot initiative as more of an asset seizure—one that could be renewed beyond a year and set a precedent for similar ones elsewhere.
—Jason Ma, Fortune, 13 Jan. 2026
Approving this project could set a precedent that could allow other private projects to use public resources elsewhere, others said.
—Claudia Levens, jsonline.com, 16 Dec. 2025
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 17 Jan. 2026.
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