set a precedent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "set a precedent" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation in which a rule or decision is made that will serve as an example for future similar situations. For example: "The court's ruling on the issue set a precedent which will be used in all similar matters."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

This set a precedent.

Harvard Business Review

It set a precedent.

The New York Times

It will set a precedent?

Yale University

Angelou, Mayfield suggested, had set a precedent.

The New Yorker

But it nonetheless set a precedent.

The Economist

Will the Danish move set a precedent?

Independent

This approach set a precedent.

The New Yorker

Mediated solutions don't set a precedent.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Now I'm afraid I've set a precedent.

The New York Times

It may even have set a precedent.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

This sets a precedent.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "set a precedent", ensure the context clearly indicates the long-term implications and potential impact of the action or decision being described. Consider whether the precedent is desirable or undesirable, and make that clear to the reader.

Common error

Avoid assuming that an action will definitively "set a precedent" without considering potential challenges, modifications, or reversals that may occur in the future. Be mindful of the scope and limitations of the action's influence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set a precedent" functions as a verb phrase indicating the establishment of a standard or guide for future actions or decisions. Ludwig AI highlights its usage in various contexts, demonstrating its role in shaping subsequent events or policies.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Academia

23%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "set a precedent" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe the establishment of a standard or rule for future actions. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage spans across news, academic, and formal business contexts, highlighting its importance in shaping subsequent events or policies. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly reflects the long-term implications. Common errors include overstating the lasting impact. Alternatives like "establish a pattern" or "create a benchmark" may be considered based on the specific nuance desired. The phrase's frequent appearance in authoritative sources underscores its relevance and reliability in formal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

set an example

Focuses on providing a guide for others through one's own actions.

establish a pattern

Focuses on creating a recurring mode of behavior or action.

create a benchmark

Highlights the creation of a standard against which others are measured.

institute a norm

Suggests establishing a practice that becomes expected or customary.

establish a convention

Suggests creating a practice widely accepted and followed.

lay the foundation

Emphasizes building a base for future developments or actions.

form a model

Highlights the creation of something to be emulated.

break new ground

Suggests innovating or doing something that has not been done before.

blaze a trail

Implies leading the way and showing others what is possible.

set the stage

Focuses on preparing for future events or actions.

FAQs

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

You can use "set a precedent" to indicate that a decision or action serves as an example or rule for future similar situations. For instance, "The court's ruling "set a precedent" for future cases involving digital privacy."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "set a precedent"?

Alternatives include "establish a pattern", "create a benchmark", or "lay the foundation" depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is there a difference between "set a precedent" and "set an example"?

While both involve influencing future behavior, "set a precedent" typically refers to a formal decision or action that legally or officially guides future situations. "Set an example", however, is more general and relates to providing a model for others to follow through one's actions.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "set a precedent"?

Use "set a precedent" when describing a decision, ruling, or action that is likely to be used as a standard or justification for similar situations in the future, especially in legal, political, or organizational contexts.