The phrase "takes precedence" is commonly used in English language, indicating that something has a higher priority or importance than something else. In terms of spelling, "takes" is pronounced /teɪks/ in IPA transcription, with the "a" sound being a long vowel. "Precedence" is pronounced /ˈprɛs.ɪ.dəns/ with stress on the first syllable and the "e" sound being pronounced as a short vowel. The word is spelled with two "e's" in the middle and a "c" and "d" at the end.
"Take precedence" is an idiomatic expression that refers to a situation where something is given greater importance, priority, or preference over other things or individuals. This phrase is commonly used to describe a scenario where one thing or person is considered more significant or is granted priority over others in a specific context or situation.
When an action, decision, or matter is said to "take precedence," it means that it is to be given priority over other competing actions, decisions, or matters. This could be due to various factors, such as its urgency, importance, or relevance in relation to other tasks or issues at hand.
In practical terms, if something "takes precedence" over another, it means that it is to be dealt with or addressed first, before attending to any other tasks or matters. This concept is frequently utilized in various areas, including law, protocols, procedures, and daily life situations, to ensure effective prioritization and decision-making.
For example, in a business setting, if a project is considered to "take precedence," it implies that it should be given priority in terms of resources, attention, and completion over other projects. Similarly, in etiquette or social settings, certain customs or traditions may "take precedence" in specific circumstances, indicating that they should be followed or recognized before any other actions or practices.
Overall, the phrase "takes precedence" signifies the granting of superior importance, prominence, or priority to one thing or person over others in a given situation or context.
The word "precedence" comes from the Latin word "praecedentia", which is derived from the verb "praecedere" meaning "to go before" or "to surpass". In this sense, "precedence" refers to the act or state of being prior or having superiority in rank or importance. The phrase "takes precedence" is a combination of the verb "takes", meaning "to acquire" or "to occupy", and the noun "precedence". Together, the phrase signifies that something or someone acquires a position of superiority or priority over others.