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Precursors Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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precursors

[prɪˈkəːsəz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

chemistry

Chemical compounds or substances that are used to create a new compound or substance.

Synonyms

antecedents, forerunners, predecessors.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
precursors

Again, used in scientific or technical fields to indicate something that precedes and paves the way for another thing.

  • The early experiments were precursors to the groundbreaking research that followed
forerunners

Used to describe people or things that signal the coming of something else and often have a pioneering role.

  • The Wright brothers were forerunners in the field of aviation
antecedents

Often used in historical or genealogical contexts to refer to people, events, or conditions that existed before the current ones.

  • The traditions have their antecedents in ancient rituals
predecessors

Used in the context of jobs, positions, or roles to indicate the person or thing that came before the current one.

  • She has improved the processes her predecessors put in place

Examples of usage

  • These precursors are essential for the synthesis of the final product.
  • The precursors undergo a series of reactions to form the desired compound.
Context #2 | Noun

biology

An ancestor or a previous form of something.

Synonyms

ancestors, forebears, progenitors.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
precursors

Use when referring to something that comes before another and often influences its development, can be related to events, inventions, or phenomena.

  • The telephone was a precursor to modern smartphones
  • Early online message boards were precursors to today's social media platforms
ancestors

Use when talking about people in one's family who lived long ago, usually focusing on direct lineage and heritage.

  • My ancestors emigrated from Ireland in the 1800s
  • We discovered that one of our ancestors fought in the Civil War
forebears

Use when emphasizing respect or admiration for those who came before, often with a sense of tradition and legacy. It can be used interchangeably with 'ancestors' but has a more formal tone.

  • Our forebears established this community over a century ago
  • He honors his forebears by maintaining the family business
progenitors

Use when talking about someone or something that is the originator or creator of a lineage, idea, or movement, often used in scientific or intellectual contexts.

  • Isaac Newton is considered one of the progenitors of modern physics
  • The ancient Greek philosophers are progenitors of Western philosophy

Examples of usage

  • The modern birds are considered the precursors of the dinosaurs.
  • The single-celled organisms are the precursors of complex life forms.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In chemistry, precursors are substances that undergo chemical processes to lead to more complex compounds.
  • Biologically, certain signals act as precursors in the development of cells or organs, indicating the beginnings of growth.
  • Understanding precursors is key in pharmacology, where identifying them helps in the development of new medications.

Literature

  • In storytelling, certain plot points act as precursors to major twists, laying groundwork for surprise elements.
  • Classic novels often feature early events that serve as precursors to character development, enriching the narrative.
  • Poetry can utilize precursory imagery to set themes and emotions before the main message unfolds.

History

  • Many technological innovations have precursors that paved the way for their development, showcasing evolution over time.
  • In history, movements and ideas often have precursors, such as early thinkers who inspired later revolutions.
  • Cultural shifts often have political or social precursors that hint at significant changes to come.

Psychology

  • In psychology, precursors can refer to early indicators of behavior, helping professionals predict actions.
  • Childhood experiences often act as precursors to adult personality traits, illustrating the connection between past and present.
  • Understanding precursors in emotional responses can help in therapeutic practices, guiding interventions.

Origin of 'precursors'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'precursor' comes from the Latin 'praecursor', where 'prae-' means 'before' and 'currere' means 'to run'.
  • In Latin, it referred to someone who runs before to announce or prepare for someone else's arrival.
  • The word was first recorded in English in the 15th century, marking its historical significance.

The word 'precursors' has Latin origins, with 'pre-' meaning 'before' and 'cursor' meaning 'runner'. It dates back to the 17th century and has been used in various fields to refer to things that come before and lead to the development of something else.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,415, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.