precedence
UK: ˈpres.ɪ.dəns | US: ˈpres.ɪ.dəns
n. the condition of being considered more important than someone or something else; priority in rank, order, or importance.
n. an act or instance of preceding (earlier occurrence).
The word "precedence" originates from Latin praecedentia, derived from praecedere ("to go before"). The morpheme pre- (from Latin prae-) means "before," while -ced- (from Latin cedere) means "to go" or "yield." The suffix -ence forms abstract nouns indicating a state or condition. Thus, "precedence" literally means "the state of going before," reflecting its modern meanings of priority or chronological order.
Safety must take precedence over convenience in workplace design.
The older case set a legal precedence for future rulings.
In diplomatic protocol, ambassadors are given precedence over other officials.
The professor argued that quality research should have precedence over quantity.
Historical events often gain precedence in shaping cultural identity.