set a precedent

phrase

: 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

The haughtiness and audacity of RHONY set a precedent for future cities, making the infamous season nine Gangster Lunch an obvious scene to recreate. — Ile-Ife Okantah, Vulture, 21 Sep. 2026

The courageous woman at the center of that series survived long enough to give a dying statement, in the hope that her testimony would set a precedent and make the world safer for others. — Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 14 Sep. 2026

Some critics fear that would set a precedent for other countries to charge ships to pass through international waterways. — David Goldman, CNN Money, 7 Sep. 2026

But Medicaid experts say the rule could set a precedent for denying coverage of drugs and other services beyond gender-affirming care. — John Wilkerson, STAT, 24 Aug. 2026

Rhymes for set a precedent

• antecedent