as in priority
the right to one's attention before other things considered less important
his merchandise order takes precedence because we received it first
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Example Sentences
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.
Recent Examples of precedence
These ideas are as warm and welcoming as color drenching with more historic precedence.
—
Abby Wolner, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Jan. 2026
Together, these outcomes suggest that maintaining the flow of property tax revenue took precedence over ensuring the system was fully accurate and durable — leaving homeowners to absorb the consequences of unresolved errors.
—Chicago Tribune, 9 Jan. 2026
Blending fun and function in consumer robotics Baby FuFu demonstrates a wider trend in consumer robotics, where usability and approachability take precedence over complexity.
—Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 6 Jan. 2026
But Fleck took to social media on Tuesday to explain that the political implications of appearing at the venue have taken precedence over the music itself.
—Steven J. Horowitz, Variety, 6 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for precedence
Abby Wolner, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Jan. 2026
Together, these outcomes suggest that maintaining the flow of property tax revenue took precedence over ensuring the system was fully accurate and durable — leaving homeowners to absorb the consequences of unresolved errors.
—Chicago Tribune, 9 Jan. 2026
Blending fun and function in consumer robotics Baby FuFu demonstrates a wider trend in consumer robotics, where usability and approachability take precedence over complexity.
—Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 6 Jan. 2026
But Fleck took to social media on Tuesday to explain that the political implications of appearing at the venue have taken precedence over the music itself.
—Steven J. Horowitz, Variety, 6 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for precedence
Recent Examples of Synonyms for precedence
priority
Noun
-
And yet some of Rieder’s prior comments on Trump policy priorities, his lack of government experience and political donations to Trump critics could work against his candidacy for the powerful position.—
Matt Egan,
CNN Money,
30 Jan. 2026
-
Meanwhile, consumer priorities appeared to be changing.—
Anniek Bao,
CNBC,
30 Jan. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Precedence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/precedence. Accessed 2 Feb. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
