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set a precedent

Idioms

Establish a usage, tradition, or standard to be followed in the future. For example, He set a precedent by having the chaplain lead the academic procession. The word precedent here signifies a previous instance or legal decision upon which future instances are based, a usage dating from the early 1400s. In British and American law it more specifically refers to a legal decision that may be used as a standard in subsequent cases.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

There was a desire to set a precedent and avoid perceptions that Fernandez, one of the squad's senior figures, had received preferential treatment.

From BBC • Apr. 8, 2026

The $6 million verdict may set a precedent for over 2,000 federal cases and thousands of state lawsuits against social media firms.

From Barron's • Mar. 25, 2026

Mizuho analyst Dan Dolev also wondered whether the move would set a precedent for other technology companies.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 26, 2026

The former first couple hope their appearance will set a precedent for Trump and other key names in the files to appear before Congress.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 26, 2026

His rationale was restated: Massari could not be allowed to set a precedent.

From "Drama High" by Michael Sokolove

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023