have/take precedence over

idiom

somewhat formal
: to be more important (than something else)
When it comes to making health care decisions, the patient's preference should take precedence.
often + over
The safety of the children has/takes precedence over everything else.

Examples of have/take precedence over in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But that does not take precedence over rooting for you. Bailey Richards, People.com, 12 Feb. 2025 Licensed therapists say the roommate phase is common in long-term relationships and marriages, particularly when external stressors such as work, children and daily responsibilities take precedence over intimacy. Mark Joseph, Newsweek, 23 Feb. 2025 Sure, the outfits tend to take precedence over hair, but a good cut can totally transform an aesthetic. Jacqueline Kilikita, refinery29.com, 7 Feb. 2025 Member schools remain responsible for certifying athlete eligibility for practice and competition, but local, state, and federal laws take precedence over NCAA rules. Kristan Hawkins, Newsweek, 6 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for have/take precedence over

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Have/take precedence over.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/have%2Ftake%20precedence%20over. Accessed 12 Mar. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!