precedence

noun

ˈpre-sə-dən(t)s How to pronounce precedence (audio)
Definition of precedencenext
as in priority
the right to one's attention before other things considered less important his merchandise order takes precedence because we received it first

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of precedence Congressional conversations around health care have largely moved on from the pandemic response, as issues ranging from the affordability of care to measles and vaccines take precedence. — Helen Branswell, STAT, 28 July 2026 Your goals and values take precedence, pushing you to craft your aspirations into existence through hard work. — Lisa Stardust, Vogue, 16 July 2026 Jack is an important part of Hollis’s life now, but not the primary source of her happiness; her cooking community, her friendships with Tatum, Dru, and Brooke, and her relationship with Caroline take precedence. — Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 14 July 2026 Money, generosity and emotional reciprocity take precedence now, especially if one person has been giving far more than the other. — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 9 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for precedence
Recent Examples of Synonyms for precedence
priority
Noun
  • The Kraken have done a fantastic job accumulating depth and building a balanced system with a priority on skill.
    — Corey Pronman, New York Times, 18 Aug. 2026
  • Having a family is not her priority, a rare outlook in Senegal.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 18 Aug. 2026
Definition of priority

Browse Nearby Words

preceded
precedence
precedences
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Cite this Entry

“Precedence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/precedence. Accessed 23 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on precedence

Nglish: Translation of precedence for Spanish Speakers

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