precede - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
precede Word Meanings
- to come before something in time or space
- to happen before another event
- to introduce or lead into
precede Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
precede Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/prɪˈsiːd/
US
/prɪˈsiːd/
precede Word Etymology
pre- = before, cede = go. Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a path leading ahead in time, guiding you to a destination that comes before others.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
Two cards sit on the desk, and I take hold of the edge to move the first card ahead of the second. I feel a small push as I adjust the grip and set the sequence in place. The tiny shift in space makes the scene feel ordered, and I notice my focus settle. In real life, the order lets the next moment come after the one I placed first.
Real Context
Precede means to come before something in time or space, so you might say dawn precedes sunrise, steps precede a journey, or a rule precedes an action. It also means to happen before another event in a sequence, such as a ceremony that precedes the main program, or to introduce or lead into something, as a paragraph that precedes a chapter by laying out the background. In everyday use, precede often appears in formal writing or descriptions of order and priority. When you say ‘X precedes Y,’ you are placing X ahead of Y in order, importance, or schedule. Remember not to confuse precede with exceed or follow.
Usage Reminders
- Use precede with a clear direct object: X precedes Y.
- Use in formal writing or careful narration.
- Can also mean to introduce something that comes before the main part.
- Avoid mixing with follow, exceed, or precedented forms unless you know the nuance.
- For events, describe sequence with before or prior to, not after.
- Remember related noun: precedence.
Common Misconceptions
- Precede means to go faster or exceed in speed.
- Precede and precede-by are interchangeable in all contexts.
- It is the same as follow or after.
- Precede can describe people in casual speech, not just events.
- Precede is the noun form; precedes is unnecessary.
Thinking Differences
In English, precede frames order in time or sequence and is common in formal writing; learners often mix it with follow or confuse it with precedents or introductions.
Learning Tips
- Create mental images of order: X precedes Y.
- Practice with time-based examples (days, events).
- Memorize common collocations and prepositional patterns.
- Distinguish precede from follow and from introduce.
- Use in formal writing to frame sequence or introductions.
- Make flashcards comparing synonyms and their nuances.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'precede' mean?
A.To come after
B.To happen at the same time
C.To go before
D.To ignore completely
Step 2: Usage
Choose the sentence that uses 'precede' correctly.
A.She always precedes her emails with a greeting.
B.The dessert will precede the main course.
C.The colors of the rainbow precede the storm.
D.I will precede her in line for the movie.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'precede'?
A.Come before
B.Follow
C.Anticipate
D.Succeed
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of the word 'precede'?
A.Chase
B.Succeed
C.Delay
D.Ignore
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where something might happen before another event?
A.The concert starts at 8 PM.
B.The final exam was tough.
C.The instructor will arrive first.
D.The meeting failed to attract interest.
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