set a precedent for

USAGE SUMMARY

"set a precedent for" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is often used when referring to people showing a willingness to do something for the first time, leading to it becoming accepted by a majority of people, or having future actions of a similar nature judged by the standards of the original precedent. For example, "Her groundbreaking work in the field of engineering set a precedent for future generations of female engineers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It also set a precedent for much-needed interagency cooperation.

The New York Times

It might even set a precedent for others.

The New York Times

However, they set a precedent for future animal trades.

The Guardian

Her bequest set a precedent for treating couture as art — and as a tax deduction.

The New Yorker

It may have set a precedent for a series of votes on independence.

Independent

It could set a precedent for Kremlin-backed companies wanting to make comparable acquisitions in Britain.

The Economist

"It would set a precedent for other countries leaving the region.

The New York Times

These concessions would set a precedent for Wales and Northern Ireland.

The Guardian

But a successful collection by Yukos could set a precedent for larger claims still being adjudicated.

The New York Times

Analysts are concerned this could set a precedent for other mining companies.

The Guardian - Business

Russia opposes independence for Kosovo, contending that it would set a precedent for other breakaway states.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "set a precedent for", ensure the context clearly indicates the future implications of the action being described. This helps readers understand the long-term impact and significance of the precedent being set.

Common error

Avoid using "set a precedent for" when the action's impact is minimal or unlikely to influence future decisions significantly. Overusing the phrase can dilute its meaning and diminish its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set a precedent for" functions as a verb phrase that introduces the idea of establishing a standard or pattern that will influence future actions or decisions. It is commonly used to indicate that a particular event or action is significant because it will serve as a guide for similar situations in the future. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage and wide applicability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

15%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "set a precedent for" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to indicate that a specific action or decision will influence future similar situations. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage and provides numerous examples across various contexts, primarily in news, science, and wiki sources. While the phrase is versatile, it's important to use it judiciously, ensuring the action's impact warrants the emphasis on its precedent-setting nature. Alternatives like "establish a benchmark for" and "lay the foundation for" offer similar meanings with subtle differences in connotation, allowing for precise expression depending on the context. By understanding its function, purpose, and potential pitfalls, writers can effectively leverage "set a precedent for" to convey the significance of influential actions and decisions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

set the standard for

Emphasizes establishing a level of quality or achievement.

establish a benchmark for

Focuses on establishing a standard of performance or achievement.

lay the foundation for

Emphasizes the creation of a basis or groundwork for future developments.

pave the way for

Suggests removing obstacles and making a path for subsequent actions.

establish a pattern for

Focuses on creating a recognizable and repeatable sequence of actions.

create a model for

Highlights the creation of something to be imitated or followed.

break new ground for

Implies innovation and doing something that has not been done before.

initiate a trend for

Highlights starting something popular that others will follow.

formulate a basis for

Implies developing a fundamental principle or foundation.

be a harbinger of

Suggests that something indicates a major change or development.

FAQs

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

Use "set a precedent for" to indicate that a decision or action establishes a pattern for future similar situations. For example, "This ruling could "set a precedent for" future environmental lawsuits".

What are some alternatives to saying "set a precedent for"?

You can use alternatives like "establish a benchmark for", "lay the foundation for", or "pave the way for" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "set a precedent for" or "establish a standard for"?

The choice depends on the context. "Set a precedent for" implies influencing future actions, while "establish a standard for" focuses on setting a level of quality or achievement. They are interchangeable, but their connotations differ.

How does "set a precedent for" differ from "set a trend for"?

"Set a precedent for" implies a formal decision or action influencing future similar situations, whereas "set a trend for" refers to initiating something that becomes popular or fashionable. The former carries more weight and long-term implications.