take precedence Meaning

Term: Take precedence

Definition and Meaning

The phrase “take precedence” means to have greater importance or priority over something else. When one thing takes precedence, it should be considered before other things in terms of relevance, urgency, or significance.

1. Literal Meaning: To be ranked above or prioritized over something else.
2. Figurative Meaning: To take priority in decision-making, considerations, or actions, often in context where multiple factors or choices are involved.

Etymology

The term “precedence” comes from the Old French word precedence, which itself is derived from the Latin praecedentia, from the verb praecedere, meaning “to go before” (from prae- meaning “before” and cedere meaning “to go”). The phrase “take precedence,” therefore, reinforces the idea of something going before or surpassing another in importance or urgency.

Literal and Figurative Uses

• Literal Use: In a literal sense, when discussing scheduling, one might say that a meeting will take precedence over lunch, meaning that the meeting is more important and should occur first.

  Example: “The quarterly review will take precedence over the regular team huddle.”

• Figurative Use: Figuratively, the phrase can describe priorities in life. For instance, one could say that family should take precedence over work commitments, emphasizing the idea that personal relationships are more important than professional obligations.

  Example: “In times of crisis, mental health should take precedence over meeting deadlines.”

Common Phrases or Idioms Featuring the Term

• “Health takes precedence over wealth.”
• “In negotiations, the needs of clients often take precedence.”

Contextual Usage and Example Sentences

1. “When deciding on vacation plans, affordability should take precedence over destination glamour.”
2. “In an emergency, safety takes precedence over all other considerations.”
3. “The board’s recommendations will take precedence in the final decision-making process.”
4. “During her internship, gaining practical experience took precedence over getting paid.”
5. “In relationships, trust must take precedence for the bond to flourish.”
6. “Academic performance should take precedence while preparing for college admission.”

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms:

• Have priority
• Prevail
• Take priority
• Be more important
• Come first

Antonyms:

• Be subordinate
• Follow
• Take second place
• Be less important
• Be secondary

In summary, “take precedence” is a versatile phrase that highlights the importance and priority of one thing over another. Whether discussing schedules, values, or decisions, it serves as a powerful expression of prioritization.

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