using historical precedent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "using historical precedent" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing decisions, actions, or arguments that are based on past events or examples. Example: "The committee made its decision using historical precedent to ensure consistency in their rulings."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

(Formerly R3202) Painting II: Extension of VIAR R2100 with greater emphasis on notions of meaning and context in work, as well as more speculative aspects of image-making and structure (again using historical precedents as examples) and an increased range of personal choice and expression in the execution of classroom assignments.

Columbia University

Still, Standard & Poor's chief investment strategist, Sam Stovall, sees some value in using historical precedents as a guide he just doesn't recommend that investors jump in and out of the market as the old saw suggests.

Forbes

The Economist's Italy correspondent, John Hooper, writing in The World in 2014, uses historical precedent to suggest that Italy's chances should not be forgotten: "There have been 19 World Cup competitions and Italy has won four.

The Economist

BuzzFeed reports Coburn said impeachment is "not something you take lightly, and you have to use a historical precedent of what that means," noting that he feels there is a great deal of "incompetence" in the Obama administration.

Huffington Post

Using the historical precedents, a forecaster in early 2005 would have expected such a decline in expected inflation to produce a rally for stocks and a decline for gold.

The New York Times

Use "historical" as instructed.

WikiHow

I would suggest instead that you try to fend him off through the use of historical precedent.

The New York Times - Magazine

The use of historical precedent to inform and inspire current decision making is an integral part of information design research ensuring discussion of context and its application in social, cultural, economic and educational aspects of life (see, for example, the historical perspectives section in Black et al., 2017, pp. 3 174).

Nature

Using computers to find killers has historical precedent.

The New Yorker

The practice has solid historical precedent.

The New York Times - Arts

The idea of refugee travel documents has an historical precedent: the Nansen Passports used by the League of Nations.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When "using historical precedent", clearly articulate the specific historical events or examples you are referencing to provide context and credibility to your argument.

Common error

Avoid assuming that historical precedents perfectly mirror current situations. Acknowledge the differences in context and be mindful of potential oversimplifications.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "using historical precedent" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the object of a verb or preposition. Ludwig AI provides examples where it's part of a larger clause, indicating its role in providing context or justification.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Academia

33%

Science

32%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "using historical precedent" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that serves to draw parallels between past and present events, often to justify decisions or provide context. Ludwig AI identifies it as correct and usable, though relatively rare. Its usage is primarily found in news, academic, and scientific contexts, suggesting a formal or neutral register. When employing this phrase, remember to clearly articulate the historical references and avoid overgeneralizing parallels. Consider alternatives like "drawing upon past examples" or "relying on historical examples" for slight variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

drawing upon past examples

Focuses on the action of extracting information from previous instances.

relying on historical examples

Emphasizes the dependence on history as a source of guidance.

based on historical record

Highlights the use of documented historical facts.

informed by historical context

Suggests that historical understanding shapes current perspectives.

following historical patterns

Indicates an alignment with established trends in the past.

applying historical lessons

Focuses on using insights gained from past events.

taking cues from history

Implies that historical events are providing signals or hints.

mirroring historical trends

Suggests a close resemblance to past developments.

echoing historical events

Implies a strong similarity or repetition of past occurrences.

learning from historical outcomes

Focuses on the results of past actions as a guide.

FAQs

How can I effectively "use historical precedent" in an argument?

To effectively "use historical precedent" in an argument, clearly state the historical event, explain its relevance to the current situation, and acknowledge any differences between the two contexts. Ensure your comparison strengthens your argument rather than oversimplifying the issue.

What's the difference between "using historical precedent" and "relying on historical examples"?

While both phrases involve drawing from the past, "using historical precedent" suggests a more formal and direct application of past events as a justification or guide, while "relying on historical examples" implies a broader consideration of past instances for insight or understanding.

Is it always appropriate to "use historical precedent" in decision-making?

While "using historical precedent" can be valuable, it's not always appropriate. Consider whether the historical context is truly relevant and if significant differences exist that might invalidate the comparison. Avoid relying solely on historical analogies without considering current factors.

What are some potential pitfalls when "using historical precedent"?

Potential pitfalls include oversimplification, cherry-picking examples to support a pre-existing conclusion, ignoring crucial contextual differences, and assuming that past outcomes will inevitably repeat themselves. Always critically evaluate the relevance and applicability of historical parallels.