Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Preceding Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

⏪
Add to dictionary

preceding

[prɪˈsiːdɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

before something in time or order

Coming before in time or order; previous or prior.

Synonyms

former, previous, prior.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
preceding

Utilize for describing something that directly comes before another in a sequence or order.

  • The preceding chapter is critical for understanding the conclusion.
  • In the preceding year, the company saw a significant increase in profits.
previous

Appropriate when discussing something that came immediately before the current topic or time frame.

  • In the previous meeting, we discussed the budget for next year.
  • The previous owner of this house installed the new windows.
prior

Best suited for emphasizing the importance or superiority of something that happened earlier, often in a more formal context.

  • He had prior commitments and couldn't attend the event.
  • The company values prior experience in the industry.
former

Used to refer to something that was previously in a particular position or state, often contrasting it with the current state.

  • My former boss was very strict, unlike the current one.
  • She is a former champion, having won the title five years ago.

Examples of usage

  • The preceding chapter provides important background information.
  • Please read the instructions in the preceding document before starting the task.
Context #2 | Verb

to come before something in time or order

To come before (something) in time or order.

Synonyms

be earlier than, come before, go before.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
preceding

Used to describe something that happened immediately before another event or thing, often in formal contexts.

  • The preceding chapter discussed the basics of quantum mechanics.
  • In the preceding years, the company saw significant growth.
come before

Used to describe something occurring or existing before another thing, often in sequences or priorities.

  • In the alphabet, the letter N comes before O.
  • Safety should come before profits in any business.
be earlier than

Used to indicate that one event or time point occurs before another, often in everyday or conversational settings.

  • The meeting will be earlier than lunchtime.
  • Her birthday is earlier than mine in the same month.
go before

Used to indicate something happening or existing ahead of something else, often in legal or formal contexts.

  • The case will go before the judge next week.
  • Several buffers go before the final stage of processing.

Examples of usage

  • She was preceded by her bodyguards.
  • The main course is preceded by a soup.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Grammar

  • 'Preceding' is often used in writing to refer to events or statements that come before others.
  • In grammar, it can describe clauses or phrases that introduce or lead into main ideas.
  • It often appears in literary contexts to establish chronology or causation.

Literature

  • In literature, the preceding text sets the stage for what follows, creating important context for understanding.
  • Many authors use preceding chapters to build suspense before a climax in the narrative.
  • Poets also use preceding lines to enhance meaning or build imagery in their verses.

Education

  • In learning, understanding preceding concepts is crucial for grasping new material, especially in subjects like math or science.
  • Teachers often review preceding lessons to connect new information with what students already know.
  • Preceding discussion points in a debate can shape the audience’s perspective on the topic.

Pop Culture

  • In television series, a preceding episode often contains crucial plot details that lead to the next one.
  • Film franchises frequently have preceding installments that provide backstories for characters and motivations.
  • Fans speculate on how preceding events in a series will influence future outcomes and character arcs.

Origin of 'preceding'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'praecedere', meaning 'to go before'.
  • The prefix 'pre-' means 'before', while 'cedere' means 'to go'.
  • The term has been in use since the late 14th century in English.

The word 'preceding' comes from the Middle English word 'preceden', which is derived from the Old French word 'preceder' and the Latin word 'praecedere', meaning 'go before'. The concept of something preceding another has been used in various languages and cultures throughout history.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,730, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.