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Precursory: meaning, definitions and examples

๐Ÿ”ฎ
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precursory

 

[prษชหˆkษœหrsษ™ri ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

general use

The term 'precursory' describes something that serves as a precursor or an indication of what is to come. It is often used in contexts where an event, phenomenon, or condition precedes and signals the onset of another. This term can apply in various fields such as science, literature, and psychology, where early signs or symptoms might foreshadow larger developments.

Synonyms

antecedent, forerunner, preliminary, preliminary.

Examples of usage

  • The precursory signs of the economic recession were evident months before it actually hit.
  • In literature, precursory themes can hint at the central conflict of the story.
  • Researchers found precursory behaviors in animals that indicated a change in their environment.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term 'precursory' comes from the Latin word 'praecursor,' meaning 'forerunner.'
  • Related words include 'precursor,' which refers to something that comes before another thing.
  • The prefix 'pre-' means 'before,' highlighting the word's nature of indicating what comes first.

Literature

  • In storytelling, a precursory event often sets up the plot, hinting at themes and conflicts later explored.
  • Foreshadowing is a literary device that serves a similar purpose, providing hints about what will happen next.
  • Many classic novels use precursory elements to build suspense, keeping readers engaged and curious.

Science

  • In biology, precursory conditions can refer to early signs of a disease that indicate future health issues.
  • Geological studies often look for precursory signs of natural disasters, like earthquakes, to better predict them.
  • Chemistry involves precursory reactions that lead to final products, crucial for understanding chemical processes.

Psychology

  • Social cues can be precursory signals that indicate how someone may react in a social situation.
  • Emotional precursors can affect behavior; for instance, early feelings of anxiety might predict later panic attacks.
  • Recognizing precursory signs in one's thought patterns can help in managing stress and promoting mental health.

Pop Culture

  • Trailers for upcoming movies act as precursory teasers, generating excitement and expectations among viewers.
  • In music, a song that precedes an album's release can serve as a precursory taste of the overall theme.
  • Television shows often include a precursory recap of previous episodes to refresh the audience's memory.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,428, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.