according to precedent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "according to precedent" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in legal or formal contexts to refer to decisions or actions that are based on previous cases or established practices. Example: "The court ruled in favor of the defendant, according to precedent set in earlier cases."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

The next morning, "when there was nothing left of the Equinoxes, because the Precession had preceded according to precedent," the Elephant's Child sets out to find what the Crocodile has for dinner.

The New York Times

The chief justice of the United States is supposed to uphold the law according to precedent and not speculate on how he would rule in future cases.

The New York Times

I believed that people acted within a defined set of expectations, and that if she and I were to be close, such a relationship would happen only according to precedent, as a May-September romance.

The New York Times

According to precedent, residency is determined by an individual's intention to be a resident.

Forbes

Floyd, however, supported Jackson's actions, maintaining he had acted according to precedent and his orders.

Wikipedia

This was supposed to take place "according to precedent", but the 'stage management' of the event left something to be desired; among other things the gates at Temple Bar, where the officers of arms customarily demand entry to the City of London, were left open.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Senators cannot be recalled by their states before their terms expire, according to precedents set by the US supreme court.

The Guardian

This bizarre legislation, which Republican majorities hope to enact Sept. 11, would override an earlier veto by Gov. Jay Nixon, a Democrat, who noted the obvious fact that the measure is unconstitutional according to precedents stretching all the way to the Civil War.

The New York Times

They wanted to celebrate the Lord's Supper according to biblical precedent.

The New York Times

Rudd called her later that week to say that the families were not to be granted legal aid according to the precedent set by the Hillsborough campaigners, without giving a reason.

The Guardian

But they go on to argue that, according to legal precedent, they must also consider the responsibility to preserve the lives of those in custody and the impact on security and discipline in Guantánamo.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "according to precedent", ensure the precedent is clearly established and relevant to the current situation. Citing the specific case or rule strengthens the argument.

Common error

Avoid using "according to precedent" without specifying the exact precedent being followed. Vague references weaken your argument and can be interpreted as lacking substance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "according to precedent" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb or noun. Ludwig AI explains that it is used in legal or formal contexts, which is verified by the many cases found in formal publications. It indicates that an action, decision, or statement is based on previous cases, established practices, or legal rulings.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "according to precedent" is a prepositional phrase used to indicate that something is done based on established practices or prior cases, especially in legal and formal contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and suitability for formal writing. While its usage is relatively uncommon, it serves to lend authority to a position by grounding it in existing norms. For more informal contexts, consider alternatives like "based on past examples". When using the phrase, ensure you can clearly identify the precedent you are referring to. The phrase appears most frequently in news and media sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

based on prior precedent

Specifies the foundation as previous legal or procedural guidelines.

following established practice

Emphasizes the adherence to a customary way of doing things.

in line with prior rulings

Focuses on the consistency with previous judicial decisions.

consistent with past practice

Highlights the similarity to what has been done before.

as per previous examples

Uses the concrete cases as the base for a decision.

guided by existing norms

Stresses the influence of standards on behavior.

in accordance with established rules

Highlights that is being followed a specific code of conduct.

pursuant to historical norms

Highlights that the reference guidelines are ancient.

on the basis of legacy practice

Highlights that there is an heritage behind the action.

drawing from earlier instances

Highlights that is taking inspiration from what happened before.

FAQs

How can I use "according to precedent" in a sentence?

Use "according to precedent" to indicate that a decision or action aligns with previous, similar cases or established practices. For example, "The judge ruled in favor of the plaintiff, "according to precedent" set in Miranda v. Arizona."

What phrases are similar to "according to precedent"?

Similar phrases include "based on prior rulings", "following established practice", and "in line with prior rulings". These all convey the idea of adhering to past decisions or customs.

Is it appropriate to use "according to precedent" in informal writing?

While grammatically correct, "according to precedent" is best suited for formal contexts like legal documents, academic papers, or official reports. In informal writing, consider simpler alternatives like "based on past examples" or "as usual".

What's the difference between "according to precedent" and "following procedure"?

"According to precedent" refers specifically to past cases or rulings that guide current decisions, especially in legal settings. "Following procedure" is more general, meaning adherence to established steps or protocols, which might not always be based on legal or historical cases.