based on historical precedent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "based on historical precedent" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing decisions, actions, or policies that are informed by past events or examples. Example: "The committee's decision to implement the new policy was based on historical precedent, drawing lessons from similar situations in the past."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Based on historical precedent, it is enough to all but assure that Mr. Romney will be the Republican nominee.

The New York Times

What many are wondering is whether, based on historical precedent, that will be enough to avoid trouble.

The New York Times

His ornament was not based on historical precedent but rather upon geometry and the stylized forms of nature.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Such an outcome would almost certainly be declared an upset, but it would not be all that surprising based on historical precedent.

The New York Times

Even if we leave the other variables in the analysis, that would make Mr. Paul the favorite to win the Iowa caucuses based on historical precedent.

The New York Times

Based on historical precedent, it would be a perilous process and he could have a big problem from Labour's rump of leftwingers.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

The prince routinely opposes modernist architecture and advocates traditional styles based on historical precedents.

The Guardian

Using a model based on historical precedents, the American blogger predicted the result of the 2012 presidential election with startling accuracy.

The Economist

As a result, at times, countries set priorities based on historical precedents or by forming ad hoc committees [ 31].

Health Research Policy and Systems

At this point in the Industrial Revolution, the methods and procedures used to organize human labour, to plan and control the flow of work, and to handle the myriad details on the shop floor were largely informal and were based on historical patterns and precedents.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Finally, the study parameters used were based on historical data; the validity of the projections will depend on how the next pandemic compares with its precedents.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Before stating that something is "based on historical precedent", research and confirm the accuracy of the historical events to avoid misinterpretations or flawed conclusions.

Common error

Avoid assuming that a single historical instance constitutes a solid "historical precedent". Ensure there is a pattern or a significant number of similar cases to justify the claim.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "based on historical precedent" typically functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a noun or verb. It indicates the rationale or foundation for a particular action, decision, or argument. As Ludwig AI highlights, its usage is considered grammatically correct and common in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Encyclopedias

12%

Science

12%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "based on historical precedent" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression to legitimize actions, arguments, or decisions through historical parallels. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a useful phrase in different contexts, especially in news, encyclopedias, and scientific works. The phrase signals a reliance on past events to justify current actions. It is important to verify and document precedents when using the phrase. Alternatives such as "drawing from past precedents" and "following established patterns" offer similar but slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

guided by past examples

Focuses on the influence of prior cases or instances on current actions.

historically informed

Conveys the property of being instructed and updated by the past.

drawing from past precedents

Highlights the act of taking inspiration from previous examples.

informed by prior practice

Highlights the role of past experience and customs in shaping present decisions.

following established patterns

Focuses on adherence to recognized and repeated behaviors or norms.

rooted in historical context

Highlights that a certain something originates from the historical background.

in accordance with historical norms

Emphasizes alignment with what has been typical or standard in the past.

reflecting lessons from the past

Emphasizes the learning aspect of considering historical events.

as history dictates

Positions history as a decisive factor or guide.

taking a cue from history

Suggests that something is inspired by history.

FAQs

How can I use "based on historical precedent" in a sentence?

You can use "based on historical precedent" to justify a decision or action by showing that it aligns with similar events or practices in the past. For example, "The court's decision was "based on historical precedent", citing several similar cases from the past."

What are some alternatives to "based on historical precedent"?

Alternatives include "drawing from past precedents", "following established patterns", or "informed by prior practice". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "based on historical precedent" or "according to historical precedent"?

"Based on historical precedent" and "according to historical precedent" are both grammatically correct and have similar meanings. "Based on" suggests a foundation or justification, while "according to" implies alignment or conformity. The choice depends on the context and emphasis you prefer.

What does it mean when something is "based on historical precedent"?

When something is "based on historical precedent", it means that a current decision, action, or policy is justified or modeled after similar events or practices from the past. It implies that there is a recognized pattern or example in history that supports the present action.