not without precedent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not without precedent" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that a particular action or situation has occurred before, suggesting that it is not unique or unprecedented. Example: "The decision to implement remote work policies was not without precedent, as many companies had already adopted similar measures during the pandemic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

This is not without precedent.

Independent

And it was certainly not without precedent.

The New York Times - Books

MORE-modest productions are not without precedent.

The New York Times

An acquisition strategy is not without precedent.

The New York Times

But a reconciliation is not without precedent.

The New York Times

Harbor Shores is not without precedent.

The New York Times - Magazine

Moreover, they were not without precedent.

The New Yorker

His method was not without precedent.

The New York Times

This idea is not without precedent.

The New York Times

It is not without precedent.

The Guardian - Opinion

PRESIDENT Bush's actions are not without precedent.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "not without precedent" to subtly suggest that an action or decision is justified by prior examples, lending it credibility and reducing potential resistance.

Common error

Avoid using "not without precedent" in overly casual or informal settings; simpler phrases like "it's been done before" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not without precedent" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun or situation by indicating that it has some basis in prior events or actions. Ludwig AI validates this through numerous examples where the phrase is used to provide context and justification.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "not without precedent" is a grammatically correct and widely used expression that suggests an action or situation is justified by prior examples. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is common across diverse sources, particularly in News & Media and Science. While it effectively lends credibility, overuse in informal contexts should be avoided. Consider alternatives like "is not unprecedented" for simpler communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is not unprecedented

A more concise and direct synonym.

is precedented

Direct opposite of unprecedented.

has historical basis

Focuses on the historical aspect of having something to compare to.

has happened before

A simpler, more conversational way of saying something has precedent.

finds its parallel in

Highlights the existence of a similar situation or event.

is mirrored in

Indicates a reflection or close similarity in another instance.

echoes

Implies a historical or thematic resonance.

is in line with tradition

Highlights alignment with established customs.

has a corollary in

Suggests a related or parallel concept.

is historically grounded

Emphasizes that something is rooted in historical events.

FAQs

How can I use "not without precedent" in a sentence?

You can use "not without precedent" to indicate that a current action or situation has occurred before. For example: "The company's decision to expand into new markets was "not without precedent", as they had successfully done so in the past".

What's a simpler way to say "not without precedent"?

Alternatives to "not without precedent" include "has happened before", "is not unprecedented", or "there's a history of this".

Is "not without precedent" the same as "unprecedented"?

No, "not without precedent" means that something has happened before, while "unprecedented" means it has never happened before. They are opposites.

In what situations is it best to use "not without precedent"?

It's best to use "not without precedent" in formal or professional contexts when you want to subtly justify an action or decision by pointing to similar past occurrences. It's more formal than saying "it's been done before".