there is precedent for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "there is precedent for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a previous case or example that supports a current argument or decision. Example: "In legal matters, there is precedent for allowing exceptions to the rule under certain circumstances."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

THERE is precedent for such an independent valuation.

The New York Times

There is precedent for this.

The New York Times

There is precedent for him to consider.

The New York Times

There is precedent for this fear.

The New Yorker

There is precedent for Hamilton's experience.

The New York Times - Sports

There is precedent for a biting suspension.

The New York Times - Sports

There is precedent for such an exercise.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Thus, there is precedent for non-enzymatic post-translational protein modification affecting extracellular matrix function.

Human Reproduction

So there is precedent for crowd-funding disease cures.

Huffington Post

There is precedent for this from a Facebook competitor.

The New York Times

There is precedent for the disparity.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "there is precedent for", clearly state what the precedent is and how it relates to the current situation. This provides context and strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid simply stating "there is precedent for" without offering concrete examples or evidence. This weakens the argument and leaves the reader unconvinced.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "there is precedent for" functions as an existential clause followed by a prepositional phrase. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is correct and usable in written English. It introduces the idea that a prior instance or example exists, serving as a justification or rationale for a current action or belief.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "there is precedent for" is a frequently used phrase to indicate that a similar situation has occurred before, thereby justifying or validating a current action or decision. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage, highlighting its prevalence across various domains. Predominantly found in News & Media and Scientific contexts, it adopts a neutral register. When employing this phrase, ensure to furnish specific examples to reinforce your argument. Consider alternatives such as "a prior example exists" or "a similar case has occurred" to enrich your expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a prior example exists

This alternative provides a more direct and concise way of saying that a previous example can be found, emphasizing the existence of the example.

a similar case has occurred

This alternative highlights that a comparable situation has already taken place, shifting the focus to the event itself.

historical examples indicate

This option refers to historical instances, adding a dimension of time and past evidence.

past instances demonstrate

This emphasizes that earlier examples actively show or prove something, suggesting a stronger connection.

it has happened before

A simpler, more informal way of stating that something similar has occurred in the past.

earlier occurrences suggest

This phrase uses 'occurrences' and 'suggest' to indicate that previous instances imply something.

previous situations confirm

This emphasizes that previous situations support or validate something, strengthening the argument.

prior experience suggests

This phrasing highlights that lessons from the past offer insights or indications.

the past provides examples

This option directly states that examples can be found from the past.

history offers a parallel

This indicates that there's a comparable situation in history, implying a resemblance.

FAQs

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

Use "there is precedent for" to indicate that a similar situation has occurred before, providing a basis for current actions or decisions. For example, "There is precedent for allowing exceptions to the rule under certain circumstances".

What can I say instead of "there is precedent for"?

You can use alternatives like "a prior example exists", "a similar case has occurred", or "historical examples indicate" depending on the context.

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

Yes, "there is precedent for" is suitable for formal writing, especially in legal, academic, and professional contexts where referencing past examples is common.

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

"There is precedent for" implies that there's a previous instance that serves as a guide, while "there is a basis for" suggests that there's a foundation or reason, which might not necessarily involve a prior example.