as precedent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as precedent" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in legal or formal contexts to refer to a previous case or decision that serves as an example or rule for future cases. Example: "The court's ruling in this case will be cited as precedent for similar cases in the future."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Britain's experience might serve as precedent.

The New York Times

"Its continuance as precedent demeans the lives of homosexual persons".

The New York Times - Books

There are, in fact, few suitable couple comparisons to offer as precedent on the athletic level.

The New York Times - Sports

The ruling is likely to be cited as precedent by other prisoners applying for early release.

The New York Times

"Its continuance as precedent demeans the lives of homosexual persons," Justice Kennedy wrote.

The New York Times

The deadlock meant the Maryland ruling would stand, although it had no weight as precedent.

The New York Times - Arts

The court repeatedly cited decisions on interracial marriage a generation ago as precedent.

The New York Times

As precedent, Boeing cites what happened in the trans-Atlantic market in the last 20 years.

The New York Times

The catapult rears its head and is cited as precedent for nonspecific killing.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Judges typically say such observations are not to be used as precedent.

The New York Times

It also stipulated, rather notoriously, that Bush v. Gore could never be cited as precedent and it hasn't been.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as precedent", ensure the cited example is directly relevant and applicable to the current situation. Clearly articulate the similarities between the two cases to strengthen your argument.

Common error

Avoid using a single, narrow case "as precedent" for broad, sweeping decisions. A strong precedent requires substantial support and widespread applicability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as precedent" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase. It modifies a verb or noun, indicating that something is being used or considered as an example or justification based on prior occurrences. Ludwig shows examples of its use in legal, historical, and general contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

19%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as precedent" is a prepositional phrase used to indicate that something is being used or considered as an example or justification based on prior occurrences. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in news and media, as well as scientific and legal contexts. When using "as precedent", ensure the cited example is relevant and clearly connected to the current situation. Alternatives such as "by way of example" or "for guidance" can be used depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

following the example of

Directly indicates an intention to act in accordance with a previous instance.

as a model

Highlights the use of a previous instance as something to be imitated or replicated.

by way of example

Focuses on the illustrative nature of the example, highlighting its use to demonstrate a point.

consistent with earlier actions

Indicates that the current action aligns with previous behavior.

for guidance

Emphasizes the role of the prior instance as a source of direction and advice.

taking a cue from

Suggests that the current action is inspired or prompted by a prior example.

in a similar vein

Suggests that the current situation follows the same pattern or approach as a prior one.

drawing from past practice

Focuses on established customs as a source of guidance.

on the basis of

Highlights the foundational aspect of the precedent.

in light of prior events

Emphasizes the influence of past occurrences on the present decision.

FAQs

How can I use "as precedent" in a sentence?

You can use "as precedent" to refer to a previous case or situation that serves as a guide or justification for a current one. For example, "The court's ruling in a similar case was used "as precedent" in this trial."

What's a good alternative to "as precedent"?

Alternatives include "by way of example", "for guidance", or "as a model", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

In legal terms, what does it mean for a case to be cited "as precedent"?

When a case is cited "as precedent", it means that the legal principles or rulings from that case are being used to support arguments or decisions in a subsequent case with similar facts or legal issues. It establishes a standard for future judgments.

Can any previous event be used "as precedent"?

While any previous event can be referenced, its effectiveness "as precedent" depends on its relevance, similarity to the current situation, and the authority of the source. Legal and historical precedents hold more weight when cited from credible sources.