How to Pronounce Precedent

To pronounce "precedent", say PREC-ed-ent — 3 syllables, IPA /pɹɪˈsiː.dənt/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

precedent

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Accent

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3

Syllables

9

Letters

/pɹɪˈsiː.dənt/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “precedent”

"precedent" has 3 syllables: prec-ed-ent. It rhymes with antecedent and mesodont, if that helps it stick.

What does precedent mean?

noun

  1. An act in the past which may be used as an example to help decide the outcome of similar instances in the future.
  2. A decided case which is cited or used as an example to justify a judgment in a subsequent case.

verb

  1. To provide precedents for.
  2. To be a precedent for.

adjective

  1. Happening or taking place earlier in time; previous or preceding.
  2. Coming before in a particular order or arrangement; preceding, foregoing.

Hear “precedent” in real sentences

Real example sentences from Tatoeba (CC-BY) — tap to hear each one, or see it used on YouGlish.

Words that rhyme with precedent

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

antecedentmesodont

Related words

precedingpredecessorprecedenceforegoingpreviouspreludeprev

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "precedent"?▾

"Precedent" has 3 syllables: prec · ed · ent.

What is the IPA transcription of "precedent"?▾

The IPA transcription of "precedent" is /pɹɪˈsiː.dənt/.

What does "precedent" mean?▾

Precedent: An act in the past which may be used as an example to help decide the outcome of similar instances in the future.

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