Predecessors: meaning, definitions and examples

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predecessors

[ˈprɛdɪˌsɛsərz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in history

A person who held a job or position before someone else, or before the present holder.

Synonyms

ancestor, antecedent, forerunner.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
predecessors	Used when referring to people who previously held a position or role before someone else. Often used in professional, political, or organizational contexts. The new CEO thanked her predecessors for their contributions. This policy was implemented by his predecessors.
forerunner	Used to describe someone or something that precedes the current one and indicates or influences the development of future events. Often applies to trends, innovations, or notable people. The telegraph was a forerunner of modern communication technology. She is considered a forerunner in the field of environmental science.
ancestor	Used to refer to family members from past generations, typically in a historical or genealogical context. He discovered that his ancestors were from Ireland. Our ancestors built this village over 200 years ago.
antecedent	Used more formally and often in academic or legal contexts to describe something that existed before or logically precedes another. The antecedents of this theory can be traced back to ancient Greek philosophy. She had to study the antecedents of the law for her research.

Examples of usage

He was appointed as the successor to his predecessor.
The company's new CEO aims to build upon the work of her predecessors.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

in family relations

A person from whom another is directly descended, such as a grandparent.

Synonyms

ancestor, forebear, forefather.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
predecessors	Used when referring to individuals who held a position or role before someone else, often in professional or formal contexts. The new CEO was well aware of the challenges faced by her predecessors My predecessors worked hard to build the reputation of this company
forebear	Used similarly to 'ancestor,' but often with a more formal, literary, or historical tone. It often emphasizes the long lineage and historical significance of the individuals. Our forebears survived in much harsher conditions She often spoke about her forebears and their legacy
forefather	Refers specifically to male ancestors, often those who have had a significant impact, and is frequently used in discussions about historical figures or founding members. The forefathers of our country laid the foundation for our democracy He takes pride in the achievements of his forefathers
ancestor	Commonly used to talk about a person from whom one is descended, typically more distant family members, often in a genealogical or historical context. My ancestors came to this country over a hundred years ago Studying my ancestors has given me a better understanding of my family's history

Examples of usage

My great-grandfather is my predecessor in the family tree.
She inherited the antique clock from her predecessor.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word originates from the Latin 'praedecessor', meaning 'one who goes before'.
In English, it has been used since the 15th century, reflecting a lineage of meaning.
Related words include 'successor' which refers to someone who follows after.

History

In ancient monarchies, predecessors were often previous kings or queens who led before a new ruler took the throne.
In academic contexts, predecessors contribute to research, building on past findings to advance knowledge.
In the tech industry, predecessors can refer to earlier versions of products that paved the way for innovations.

Technology

In computer science, predecessors may refer to older software versions that influence current designs.
Algorithms can utilize predecessors for improving machine learning processes, analyzing previous data.
In project management, tasks often have predecessors, meaning they must be completed before others can start.

Literature

Authors often acknowledge their predecessors in literary works, showing how their writing was influenced by those who came before.
In storytelling, characters may refer to their predecessors, highlighting themes of legacy and continuity.
Epic poems from various cultures often honor predecessors, setting the narrative within a historical or mythological context.

Pop Culture

In many film franchises, predecessors set up the story for sequels, providing context for new characters.
Musical artists often pay tribute to predecessors through cover songs or samples, connecting the past to the present.
Video game developments frequently reference predecessors, creating a sense of nostalgia for long-time fans.

Translations

Translations of the word "predecessors" in other languages:

🇵🇹 predecessores

🇮🇳 पूर्ववर्तियों

🇩🇪 Vorgänger

🇮🇩 pendahulu

🇺🇦 попередники

🇵🇱 poprzednicy

🇯🇵 前任者

🇫🇷 prédécesseurs

🇪🇸 predecesores

🇹🇷 öncüller

🇰🇷 전임자들

🇸🇦 الأسلاف

🇨🇿 předchůdci

🇸🇰 predchodcovia

🇨🇳 前任者

🇸🇮 predhodniki

🇮🇸 forverar

🇰🇿 бұрынғылар

🇬🇪 წინამორბედები

🇦🇿 sələflər

🇲🇽 predecesores

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,334 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

...
7331 token
7332 fantasy
7333 surety
7334 predecessors
7335 prototype
7336 accountability
7337 recess
...