precedence

noun

ˈpre-sə-dən(t)s How to pronounce precedence (audio)
Definition of precedencenext
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

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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 The Norwegian Constitution was altered in 1990 to allow the firstborn, regardless of gender, to take precedence in the line of succession. — CBS News, 28 Aug. 2026 But these days, her family takes precedence over Hollywood, as Combs noted that her two youngest sons are still in high school. — Daysia Tolentino, Entertainment Weekly, 26 Aug. 2026 Financial stability belongs alongside price stability and employment at the heart of the Fed’s mandate—and at times should take precedence over both. — Joao Gomes, Fortune, 25 Aug. 2026 While the French incident would normally have been a major priority for Nuding’s team, Brazil had to take precedence. — Andrew Rice, New York Times, 20 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for precedence
Recent Examples of Synonyms for precedence
priority
Noun
  • Toronto would, however, get priority over other contenders that could use a righty outfielder, such as the Los Angeles Dodgers.
    — Mitch Bannon, New York Times, 31 Aug. 2026
  • The financing follows a July 30 Presidential Determination that identified recovering critical materials already in circulation as a national defense and supply security priority.
    — Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 31 Aug. 2026
Definition of priority

Browse Nearby Words

preceded
precedence
precedences
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Cite this Entry

“Precedence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/precedence. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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