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
Coordination across physical and digital public infrastructure (DPI) is now under pressure as national priorities take precedence.
—
Angela Chitkara, Fortune, 17 Apr. 2026
The safety of our citizens, our way of life and preservation of Western civilization take precedence over hate speech, which would go unchallenged and unchecked.
—Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 16 Apr. 2026
As military expansion took precedence under Aurangzeb and the Mughal empire’s finances came increasingly under strain, architectural output would never again reach the same heights in scale or quality.
—Encyclopedia Britannica, 15 Apr. 2026
What is precedence without the people?
—Jerald “coop” Cooper, Los Angeles Times, 13 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for precedence
Angela Chitkara, Fortune, 17 Apr. 2026
The safety of our citizens, our way of life and preservation of Western civilization take precedence over hate speech, which would go unchallenged and unchecked.
—Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 16 Apr. 2026
As military expansion took precedence under Aurangzeb and the Mughal empire’s finances came increasingly under strain, architectural output would never again reach the same heights in scale or quality.
—Encyclopedia Britannica, 15 Apr. 2026
What is precedence without the people?
—Jerald “coop” Cooper, Los Angeles Times, 13 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for precedence
Recent Examples of Synonyms for precedence
priority
Noun
-
The Full Moon moves through your 2nd House of Values, bringing attention to priorities, effort, and what feels worth your energy.—
Tarot.com,
New York Daily News,
1 May 2026
-
But the trade didn’t align with Reese’s priorities, leading to the final deal with the Dream.—
Kalen Lumpkins,
Chicago Tribune,
30 Apr. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Precedence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/precedence. Accessed 2 May. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
