Words / B2

pri-SEED/prɪˈsiːd/

To precede is to happen or come before something else: a talk will precede the film. Come before is everyday; precede is slightly formal and useful in writing. Follow is the opposite. Preceding is the adjective (the preceding chapter); precedence (priority) is a different noun. Do not confuse it with proceed (go ahead).

Meaning

To happen or come before something else.

Examples

• “A short talk will precede the film.”
• “A short silence preceded the announcement.”
• “In British dates, the day precedes the month.”

Good to know

precede = come before. Opposite: follow. Not proceed (go on). Adjective: preceding.

Near in meaning

come before

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