Precursor: meaning, definitions and examples
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precursor
[ prɪˈkəːsə ]
chemistry
A substance that precedes and leads to the formation of another substance.
Synonyms
antecedent, forerunner, predecessor.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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precursor |
Use this when referring to something that comes before another and indicates the approach of something else, usually in a scientific or technical context.
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forerunner |
This is best used when talking about someone or something that came before and paved the way for others, often implying direct influence.
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predecessor |
This term is most suitable when referring to a person who held a particular position or role before the current holder, often in a professional or official context.
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antecedent |
This word is appropriate when you are discussing something that logically precedes another, often in a historical or formal context.
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Examples of usage
- The precursor to this chemical reaction is the mixing of two specific compounds.
- The precursor molecule is essential for the synthesis of the final product.
biology
An earlier occurrence or version of something that serves as an indication of a future development or trend.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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precursor |
Used when referring to something that precedes and indicates the approach of another. Often in scientific, technological, or historical contexts.
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harbinger |
Commonly used when indicating something that foreshadows a change or event, often with a neutral or slightly negative connotation.
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omen |
Generally refers to a sign or event believed to predict the future, often with a mystical or superstitious nuance and sometimes with a negative connotation.
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sign |
A general term for any indication or evidence of something, broadly applicable in many contexts including everyday life, medicine, and literature.
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Examples of usage
- The discovery of fossils was a precursor to understanding the evolution of species.
- The study of DNA sequences can provide precursors to genetic diseases.
technology
A device or substance that helps to initiate a particular process or system.
Synonyms
antecedent, forerunner, predecessor.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
precursor |
Used to indicate something that comes before another and often suggests a development or a sign of something that will come later.
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forerunner |
Suggests something or someone that comes before and indicates the approach of another; can also mean a less developed form of something that later becomes more prominent.
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predecessor |
Used to talk about someone or something that held a position or role before another; most commonly used in professional or technical contexts.
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antecedent |
Typically used in formal or academic settings to describe something that precedes another in time, order, or logic. Often refers to historical or logical precedence.
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Examples of usage
- The precursor to modern computers was the invention of the abacus.
- Electricity was a precursor to the development of advanced communication systems.
Translations
Translations of the word "precursor" in other languages:
🇵🇹 precursor
🇮🇳 अग्रदूत
🇩🇪 Vorläufer
🇮🇩 pendahulu
🇺🇦 попередник
🇵🇱 prekursor
🇯🇵 先駆者
🇫🇷 précurseur
🇪🇸 precursor
🇹🇷 öncü
🇰🇷 선구자
🇸🇦 سلف
🇨🇿 předchůdce
🇸🇰 predchodca
🇨🇳 先驱
🇸🇮 predhodnik
🇮🇸 forveri
🇰🇿 алғашқы
🇬🇪 წინამორბედი
🇦🇿 müjdəçi
🇲🇽 precursor
Etymology
The word 'precursor' originated from the Latin word 'praecursor', which means 'to run before'. In English, it has been used since the 16th century to refer to something that comes before and indicates the arrival of something else. The concept of precursors is essential in various fields such as chemistry, biology, and technology, where understanding early signs or substances can lead to significant advancements or discoveries.