Precursors: meaning, definitions and examples

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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?

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?

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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

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.

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.

Translations

Translations of the word "precursors" in other languages:

🇵🇹 precursores

🇮🇳 पूर्ववर्ती

🇩🇪 Vorgänger

🇮🇩 pendahulu

🇺🇦 попередники

🇵🇱 prekursory

🇯🇵 前駆者 (ぜんくしゃ)

🇫🇷 précurseurs

🇪🇸 precursores

🇹🇷 öncüller

🇰🇷 선구자 (선구자)

🇸🇦 السابقون

🇨🇿 předchůdci

🇸🇰 predchodcovia

🇨🇳 先驱者 (xiānqūzhě)

🇸🇮 predhodniki

🇮🇸 forverar

🇰🇿 алғашқы

🇬🇪 წინამძღვრები

🇦🇿 sələflər

🇲🇽 precursores

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.

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12412 outskirts
12413 spilled
12414 prospecting
12415 precursors
12416 indistinct
12417 outdoors
12418 nodding
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