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
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
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
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.