Preponderance Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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preponderance
[prɪˈpɒnd(ə)rəns ]
Definitions
in legal terms
The quality or fact of being greater in number, quantity, or importance.
Synonyms
advantage, dominance, superiority.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| preponderance |
Used in formal contexts to describe a situation where one element is more common or prevalent than others.
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| dominance |
Describes a situation where one entity has power or control over others, often with a competitive or negative connotation.
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| superiority |
Often used to describe a state of being better than others. Can carry a negative connotation if it implies arrogance or condescension.
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| advantage |
Appropriate in both formal and informal contexts to describe a beneficial condition or position.
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Examples of usage
- The preponderance of evidence suggests that the defendant is guilty.
- In civil cases, the burden of proof is often on the plaintiff to establish a preponderance of the evidence.
general usage
The quality or fact of being greater in force, influence, or power.
Synonyms
ascendancy, dominance, supremacy.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| preponderance |
Used when referring to a greater amount or weight of something, especially in a context of statistical or factual evidence.
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| dominance |
Used to describe the power or control one entity has over another, often in competitive or hierarchical settings. It can have a slightly negative connotation.
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| ascendancy |
Appropriate when talking about a position of control or influence over others, often implying a gradual rise to this position.
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| supremacy |
Best used when referring to the highest level of authority or superiority, sometimes with an implication of invincibility or ultimate power. It can also carry a negative connotation if used to describe unjust or oppressive control.
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Examples of usage
- The preponderance of the enemy's army forced our troops to retreat.
- His preponderance in the company allowed him to make important decisions.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Law
- In legal contexts, a preponderance of evidence is a standard used in civil cases, meaning more likely true than not.
- This standard contrasts with the 'beyond a reasonable doubt' standard found in criminal cases.
- Understanding 'preponderance' is crucial for juries when determining the outcome of trials.
Statistics
- In statistical analysis, a preponderance may refer to when one variable has significantly stronger influence or results over another.
- Researchers often analyze preponderances to identify trends or biases in data sets.
- A preponderance of evidence in research can strengthen arguments and conclusions.
Philosophy
- Philosophers like David Hume explored ideas of preponderance related to belief and evidence, influencing modern thought.
- In ethics, the preponderance of good over bad actions can guide decision-making and moral judgments.
- The concept is essential in discussions about knowledge and certainty.
Everyday Usage
- People often use 'preponderance' in discussions about trends, such as the preponderance of online shopping over traditional retail.
- In debates, one side may have a preponderance of arguments, which can sway public opinion.
- The term may appear in conversations about demographics, such as the preponderance of a certain age group in a community.
Origin of 'preponderance'
Main points about word origin
- The word has its roots in Latin, coming from 'praeponderare', meaning 'to weigh more' or 'to outweigh'.
- It entered the English language in the late 14th century, originally relating to weight and balance.
- Over time, its meaning expanded beyond physical weight to include ideas and arguments.
The word 'preponderance' originated from the Latin word 'praeponderantia,' which means a state of being greater in weight or importance. The term has been used in legal contexts for centuries to describe the weight of evidence or superiority in number. Over time, 'preponderance' has come to represent the idea of dominance or superiority in various fields beyond just legal matters.