an important precedent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an important precedent" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a significant example or case that sets a standard for future actions or decisions. Example: "The court's ruling established an important precedent for similar cases in the future."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Here is an important precedent.

The Guardian - Music

The tribunal's indictments set an important precedent.

The New York Times - Magazine

Still, Frémont's declaration was an important precedent.

The New York Times

The court quoted an important precedent, Tippins v. Walker.

The New York Times

But there is an important precedent for the idea.

The New York Times

Many others, however, feel it marks an important precedent.

The Economist

But Fr?nt's declaration was an important precedent.

The New York Times

Major Witt's case has already set an important precedent.

The New York Times

Mr. Fidell agreed that the Ali case could establish an important precedent.

The New York Times

"It's an important precedent for judges to look at," Mr. McGee said.

The New York Times

"It could set an important precedent for other multinationals threatened by Venezuela's government".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an important precedent", ensure the context clearly establishes why the precedent is significant and what future actions or decisions it will influence.

Common error

Avoid using "an important precedent" to describe routine or minor events. Reserve it for situations where the precedent truly has far-reaching implications.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an important precedent" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies a previous event or decision that serves as a guide or justification for subsequent actions. Ludwig AI validates the correct usage of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Encyclopedias

15%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an important precedent" is a commonly used phrase to describe a significant prior event or decision that serves as a guide for future actions. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and most frequently found in news media, encyclopedias, and academic contexts, indicating a formal or neutral register. When using the phrase, ensure the context clearly justifies its importance and potential impact. Related phrases like "a landmark decision" or "a guiding example" may be suitable alternatives depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a landmark decision

Emphasizes the importance and historical impact of the decision.

a benchmark case

Highlights that the case is a standard against which others are measured.

a significant prior case

Focuses on the legal aspect and the influence of a past case.

a pioneering event

Focuses on the innovative and trendsetting nature of the precedent.

a guiding example

Highlights the role of the precedent as a model to follow.

a ground-breaking occurrence

Emphasizes the innovative nature of the precedent and its ability to break new ground.

a key earlier instance

Focuses on the chronological aspect and the relevance of the prior occurrence.

a formative instance

Emphasizes the impact of the instance on shaping future developments.

a notable antecedent

Uses more formal language to refer to a preceding event or situation.

a crucial forebear

Highlights the ancestry of the precedent and its influence.

FAQs

How can I use "an important precedent" in a sentence?

You can use "an important precedent" to describe a prior event that sets a standard for future actions. For example, "The court's ruling established "an important precedent" for similar cases in the future."

What are some alternatives to saying "an important precedent"?

Alternatives include "a landmark decision", "a significant prior case", or "a guiding example", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "an important precedent" in informal writing?

While grammatically correct, "an important precedent" leans towards formal language. In informal contexts, consider using simpler phrases like "a key example" or "something to follow".

What makes a case "an important precedent"?

A case becomes "an important precedent" when its ruling or outcome is seen as setting a new standard or guideline that other similar cases or situations are likely to follow. This can impact future decisions and interpretations.