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
Swift’s acumen in turning a career setback into a defining achievement set a precedent that will reverberate in the industry for decades to come.
—
Denise Warner, Billboard, 29 Jan. 2026
The case brought by eight Bonaire residents and backed by environmental group Greenpeace, sought to compel the government to better shield its citizens from the effects of increasing temperatures and rising sea levels and could set a precedent for similar legal challenges elsewhere.
—Mike Corder, Los Angeles Times, 28 Jan. 2026
The censure is not about censoring Martinez, Zepeda said, but is instead meant to set a precedent for the type of behavior the council expects of its political leaders.
—Sierra Lopez, Mercury News, 16 Jan. 2026
McConaughey’s strategy could set a precedent for how stars protect their brands in an era when AI can quickly replicate voices and likenesses without permission.
—Ana Gutierrez, Austin American Statesman, 14 Jan. 2026
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Denise Warner, Billboard, 29 Jan. 2026
The case brought by eight Bonaire residents and backed by environmental group Greenpeace, sought to compel the government to better shield its citizens from the effects of increasing temperatures and rising sea levels and could set a precedent for similar legal challenges elsewhere.
—Mike Corder, Los Angeles Times, 28 Jan. 2026
The censure is not about censoring Martinez, Zepeda said, but is instead meant to set a precedent for the type of behavior the council expects of its political leaders.
—Sierra Lopez, Mercury News, 16 Jan. 2026
McConaughey’s strategy could set a precedent for how stars protect their brands in an era when AI can quickly replicate voices and likenesses without permission.
—Ana Gutierrez, Austin American Statesman, 14 Jan. 2026
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 1 Feb. 2026.
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