set a precedent
idiom
: to decide something that will be used as an example or rule to be followed in the future
The ruling in the case is likely to set a precedent for how future cases are decided.
Examples of set a precedent in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Success could set a precedent for liberal policies in countries facing similar challenges, from inflation to fiscal deficits.
—
Gianluca Sidoti, Forbes, 21 Feb. 2025
But, as urgently as Adams needs to become an ex-mayor, removing him from office will set a precedent fraught with the potential for abuse.
—Shaun Richman, New York Daily News, 18 Feb. 2025
Legal experts argue that Musk's calls could set a precedent for using impeachment as a political tool rather than a constitutional check on misconduct.
—Matt Robison, Newsweek, 25 Feb. 2025
The Bachelor has set a precedent for putting its spinoffs on hiatus — to make space in ABC's schedule for even more Bachelor shows, in fact.
—Wesley Stenzel, EW.com, 8 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for set a precedent
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Gianluca Sidoti, Forbes, 21 Feb. 2025
But, as urgently as Adams needs to become an ex-mayor, removing him from office will set a precedent fraught with the potential for abuse.
—Shaun Richman, New York Daily News, 18 Feb. 2025
Legal experts argue that Musk's calls could set a precedent for using impeachment as a political tool rather than a constitutional check on misconduct.
—Matt Robison, Newsweek, 25 Feb. 2025
The Bachelor has set a precedent for putting its spinoffs on hiatus — to make space in ABC's schedule for even more Bachelor shows, in fact.
—Wesley Stenzel, EW.com, 8 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for set a precedent
Cite this Entry
“Set a precedent.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/set%20a%20precedent. Accessed 13 Mar. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share