as precursor

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as precursor" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to introduce something that serves as a precursor or initial stage to something else. Example: "The discovery of electricity as a precursor to modern technology revolutionized our world."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Tetramethyl- or tetraethylorthosilicate was used as precursor.

Electrochimica Acta

Poly(oxyethylene H-phosphonate) was used as precursor polymer.

Reactive and Functional Polymers

Methyltrichlorosilane (MTS) as precursor was used in the present investigation.

Journal of Nuclear Materials

powers by PECVD method using ethylcyclohexane as precursor.

Surface and Coatings Technology

A solution of WOCl4/iPrOH was used as precursor.

Electrochimica Acta

plasma assisted chemical vapour deposition using tetraethoxysilane as precursor.

Surface and Coatings Technology

Copper (II) acetylacetonate Cu acac 2 was used as precursor.

Surface and Coatings Technology

Low Delta production and high Notch activation makes the cells remain as precursor cells or become glial (supporting) cells.

Britannica

Link AJ, Vink MKS, Tirrell DA: Synthesis of the functionalizable methionine surrogate azidohomoalanine using Boc-homoserine as precursor.

Princeton University

We have designed MOFs by using 2-pyrimidinecarbonitrile as precursor and the possibilities are infinities.

Polyhedron

Cyclic polyacetal was obtained using the previous linear polymer as precursor.

European Polymer Journal

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as precursor", ensure the relationship between the initial element and the subsequent development is clear. Provide context to highlight the specific influence or role of the precursor.

Common error

Avoid using "as precursor" when the connection between the elements is tenuous or indirect. The term implies a significant and demonstrable influence, so ensure this relationship is well-supported.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as precursor" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically modifying a verb or noun to indicate that something serves as an initial or preparatory element. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

77%

Encyclopedias

6%

News & Media

4%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as precursor" is a grammatically correct and frequently used prepositional phrase, particularly in scientific and academic writing. It serves to indicate that something acts as a preceding element, influencing later developments. As highlighted by Ludwig, it's crucial to ensure a clear and demonstrable connection between the precursor and its subsequent outcome. While alternatives exist, "as precursor" provides a concise and formal means of establishing this relationship. Be mindful of potentially overstating the influence of the precursor when using this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

serving as antecedent

Replaces 'precursor' with 'antecedent', emphasizing the prior existence.

functioning as a forerunner

Uses 'forerunner' instead of 'precursor', highlighting the role in paving the way.

acting as a preliminary stage

Replaces 'precursor' with 'preliminary stage', focusing on the initial phase.

working as a foundation

Shifts the focus to the foundational aspect of the initial element.

operating as a herald

Implies that the initial element announces or signals the arrival of something else.

existing as the basis

Highlights the role of the initial element as the underlying support.

being a predecessor to

Emphasizes the temporal sequence, with the initial element coming before.

constituting a prototype for

Focuses on the initial element as a model or example for later developments.

providing an initial impulse

Highlights the role of the initial element in initiating a process.

setting the stage for

Emphasizes the preparatory role of the initial element.

FAQs

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

Use "as precursor" to indicate that something serves as an initial stage or a preceding element that leads to a later development. For example, "The early experiments served as precursor to modern quantum physics."

What are some alternatives to using "as precursor"?

You can use alternatives like "serving as antecedent", "functioning as a forerunner", or "acting as a preliminary stage" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "as precursor" in formal writing?

Yes, "as precursor" is suitable for formal writing, especially in scientific, academic, and technical contexts. It clearly and concisely establishes a relationship between an initial element and its subsequent development.

What's the difference between "as precursor" and "as a result"?

"As precursor" indicates a preceding element that influences a later development, while "as a result" indicates a consequence or outcome. They describe opposite directions in a causal relationship.