set a precedent

idiom

: to decide something that will be used as an example or rule to be followed in the future

The ruling in the case is likely to set a precedent for how future cases are decided.

Examples of set a precedent in a Sentence

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Our success can set a precedent for other cities navigating similar transitions. —

Bridget Lee, Chicago Tribune, 20 Jan. 2025 Washington also set a precedent of kissing the Bible after taking the oath of office. —

Olivia B. Waxman, TIME, 19 Jan. 2025 President Gerald Ford set a precedent with his preemptive pardon of Richard Nixon but the Supreme Court has demonstrated many times that precedents are not decisive. —

Rafael Perez, Orange County Register, 17 Jan. 2025 What Happens Next The Supreme Court's ruling will not only determine the fate of Texas' law but may also set a precedent for similar measures across the country. —

Michael Gfoeller and David H. Rundell, Newsweek, 15 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for set a precedent

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“Set a precedent.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/set%20a%20precedent. Accessed 23 Jan. 2025.

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