set precedence for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "set precedence for" is not correct; the correct phrase is "set a precedent for." You can use it when discussing actions or decisions that establish a standard or example for future situations.
Example: "The landmark ruling set a precedent for how similar cases would be handled in the future."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Because when you ignore the murder of hundreds of thousands of Iraqis, the lies told to the American people to wage a war of invasion, the crippling of the U.S. economy and the death and devastation of your own military personnel, you don't stand qualified to criticize aggression in others, you set precedence for it.

Huffington Post

Previous studies set precedence for such an occurrence [ 7, 19- 22].

BMC Ophthalmology

However previous COPD models have set precedence for modelling lung function improvement in this way [ 11, 12, 29].

Applied Health Economics and Health Policy

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

It's difficult when setting precedence for situations like this.

BBC

However, this limitation is also present in a previously published study [ 4], setting precedence for using this methodology.

BMC Health Services Research

Such initiatives set precedence and chart a path for the successful implementation of the information and communication technologies (ICTs) towards enhancing cancer education, research and practice.

Health Research Policy and Systems

In today's globalized world, the interest of the global community should set precedence.

Huffington Post

It is setting precedence by disregarding the influence of bigotry inundating media outlets that is geared toward Muslims, by releasing a collection intended for a highly-scrutinized community during a very sensitive time.

Huffington Post

Both coins were approved by the New York Department of Financial Services NYDFSS) last month, which set a precedence for the first regulated, digital representation of the U.S. dollar to be approved in the US.

TechCrunch

"I believe that this program is particularly relevant to our youths, it will contribute positively to the Zimbabwe we are striving to build and will set good precedence for generations," Guvamatanga noted.

Unicef

"This inhumane, costly and damaging policy sets up precedence for the Australian government to abdicate its responsibilities as signatory to the United Nations Refugee Convention, by effectively passing them onto one of our poorest and least developed neighbours and penalising vulnerable asylum seekers," said Goldie.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming to "set a precedent", ensure your actions are well-considered, as they may influence future decisions. Clarity and fairness are key when establishing new standards.

Common error

Avoid using "precedence" when you mean "precedent". "Precedence" refers to priority or order of importance, while "precedent" is an earlier event or action that serves as a guide for similar situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set precedence for" aims to function as a verb phrase indicating the act of establishing a pattern or standard. However, it's grammatically incorrect. Ludwig AI identifies the correct form as "set a precedent for".

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "set precedence for" appears in various contexts, it's grammatically incorrect. The correct phrase is "set a precedent for". Ludwig AI analysis highlights that the intended meaning involves establishing a standard or guideline for future actions, but the incorrect grammar undermines the effectiveness of the communication. Remember to use "precedent", not "precedence", to accurately convey the meaning of establishing a pattern for future decisions. The phrase is rare, but the correct phrase "set a precedent" is a very common one. Pay attention to the potential confusion between "precedence" and "precedent", as the first means 'priority' while the second means 'example'.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

establish a precedent

Focuses on the act of creating a new standard.

create a precedent

Emphasizes the creation of an example for future actions.

set a standard

Highlights the establishment of a benchmark.

lay the groundwork

Suggests preparing a base for future developments.

break ground

Implies initiating something new.

set an example

Focuses on providing a model to follow.

blaze a trail

Suggests being the first to do something that others will follow.

chart a course

Implies setting a direction or plan.

forge a path

Emphasizes creating a new route or method.

institute a practice

Focuses on establishing a new habit or routine.

FAQs

What's the difference between "precedence" and "precedent"?

"Precedence" refers to the order or priority things have, while "precedent" is a past instance that sets a rule for the future. The correct phrase is "set a precedent", not "set precedence".

How do you properly "set a precedent"?

To "set a precedent", make sure your decision or action is well-reasoned and documented, as it may be used as a standard in future similar cases. Ensure it is fair and equitable to avoid unintended consequences.

What can I say instead of "set precedence for"?

Since "set precedence for" is incorrect, use the correct form, which is "set a precedent". Other alternatives include "establish a precedent" or "create a standard".

When is it appropriate to "set a precedent"?

It's appropriate to "set a precedent" when dealing with novel situations where a clear guideline is needed for future actions. This is common in legal, ethical, and policy-making contexts.