TAKE PRECEDENCE Meaning and
Definition
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"Take precedence" is an idiomatic expression that means to be given priority or to be considered as more important or urgent than something else. When one thing takes precedence over another, it is given a higher level of importance or is given priority in terms of attention, action, or decision-making.
For example, in a workplace setting, urgent tasks or deadlines may take precedence over routine or non-essential ones. Similarly, in a group discussion or meeting, the opinions or suggestions of senior members may take precedence over those of junior members due to their higher level of experience or authority. In personal relationships, a family emergency may take precedence over other social obligations, as ensuring the well-being of loved ones becomes the top priority.
The phrase can also be used in a legal context. In some cases, specific laws or legal rights may take precedence over general or customary rules. This means that the special rights or provisions granted by the law prevail over other considerations or actions.
In summary, "take precedence" refers to the act of assigning higher importance or priority to one thing over another. It implies that the prioritized item or action is considered to be more urgent, significant, or deserving of attention compared to other options.
Common Misspellings for TAKE PRECEDENCE
Etymology of TAKE PRECEDENCE
The phrase "take precedence" is a combination of two words: "take" and "precedence".
"Take" primarily comes from the Old English word "tacan", which means "to grasp or capture". Over time, it evolved in Middle English to "taken", and eventually to the modern form "take".
"Precedence" has its roots in Latin. The word "precedentia" in Latin means "going before" or "coming before". This came from the verb "precedere", which translates to "go before" or "be ahead". In English, it became "precedence" which means "the condition of being considered more important".
Thus, when we combine the two words, "take precedence" signifies the act of capturing or grasping the position of being more important or having a higher priority.
