there is precedent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase “there is precedent” is an acceptable and commonly used phrase in written English.
You can use it when referencing a previous event or situation that can be used to justify or explain one’s current course of action. For example: “With similar cases in the past, there is precedent for believing that this plan will be successful.”.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

THERE is precedent for such an independent valuation.

The New York Times

There is precedent here.

The New Yorker

Yet there is precedent.

Independent

There is precedent for this.

The New York Times

And there is precedent.

The Guardian - Tech

So there is precedent.

The New York Times

There is precedent for him to consider.

The New York Times

There is precedent for the disparity.

The New York Times

There is precedent for this fear.

The New Yorker

After all, there is precedent.

The Guardian - Sport

There is precedent," Barwick said.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "there is precedent" to strengthen arguments by demonstrating that similar situations have occurred before, lending credibility to your claims.

Common error

Avoid using "there is precedent" repeatedly in a single piece of writing. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive and less impactful. Vary your language by using synonyms or rephrasing your sentences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "there is precedent" functions as an existential clause introducing the existence of a prior event or case that serves as a justification or basis for a current action or decision. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "there is precedent" is a correct and very common expression used to indicate that a similar situation or event has occurred before, thereby providing justification or a basis for current actions. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically sound and appropriate for use in various contexts, from formal to neutral. It is frequently found in news, science, and business-related articles. While the phrase is versatile, it's important to avoid overuse and consider alternative expressions to maintain writing clarity. The examples show diverse applications, emphasizing the phrase's role in lending credibility to arguments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

There's a history of this

This alternative uses a contraction and more informal vocabulary.

There's a track record

This alternative uses a different metaphor.

There are past instances

This alternative replaces 'precedent' with more common words.

A similar case exists

This alternative uses a more formal tone and vocabulary.

Prior examples can be found

This alternative adopts a passive voice.

It has happened before

This alternative is simpler and more direct.

Earlier occurrences are known

This alternative is more formal and impersonal.

We've seen this previously

This alternative employs a first-person perspective.

The past provides examples

This alternative rephrases the idea more poetically.

History shows similar events

This alternative takes a broader historical view.

FAQs

How can I use "there is precedent" in a sentence?

You can use "there is precedent" to indicate that a similar situation or event has occurred before, providing a basis for current actions or decisions. For example: "There is precedent for this type of agreement in previous negotiations".

What are some alternatives to "there is precedent"?

Some alternatives to "there is precedent" include "there is a history of this", "it has happened before", or "a similar case exists", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "there is precedent" in formal writing?

Yes, "there is precedent" is suitable for formal writing. It's a clear and professional way to indicate that something is supported by past examples or cases.

What's the difference between "there is precedent" and "there is a pattern"?

"There is precedent" refers to a specific previous instance that supports a current action or decision. "There is a pattern" suggests a recurring series of similar events or behaviors. While related, "there is a pattern" implies repetition rather than just a single prior case.