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
Recent Examples on the Web
And should Kennedy’s new vaccine team openly discard HPV doses primarily for the sake of dropping a shot, that could set a precedent—for removing other vaccines from the schedule, in part or entirely.
—
Katherine J. Wu, The Atlantic, 19 June 2025
The protocol was first implemented in 2019 , the year Primavera Sound set a precedent with the first gender-equal lineup in its history.
—Isabelle Kliger, Forbes.com, 2 June 2025
Opponents argue the school would divert resources from traditional public schools and set a precedent that could alter charter school laws nationwide.
—Gabe Whisnant, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Apr. 2025
But some analysts fear that recognizing Somaliland could disrupt the region, strengthen groups like Al Shabab and upset close U.S. allies like Egypt, Turkey and the African Union, who fear the move would set a precedent for secessionist movements across Africa.
—Abdi Latif Dahir, New York Times, 12 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for set a precedent
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Katherine J. Wu, The Atlantic, 19 June 2025
The protocol was first implemented in 2019 , the year Primavera Sound set a precedent with the first gender-equal lineup in its history.
—Isabelle Kliger, Forbes.com, 2 June 2025
Opponents argue the school would divert resources from traditional public schools and set a precedent that could alter charter school laws nationwide.
—Gabe Whisnant, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Apr. 2025
But some analysts fear that recognizing Somaliland could disrupt the region, strengthen groups like Al Shabab and upset close U.S. allies like Egypt, Turkey and the African Union, who fear the move would set a precedent for secessionist movements across Africa.
—Abdi Latif Dahir, New York Times, 12 Apr. 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 30 Jun. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share