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
Recent Examples on the Web
The Bachelor has set a precedent for putting its spinoffs on hiatus — to make space in ABC's schedule for even more Bachelor shows, in fact.
—
Wesley Stenzel, EW.com, 8 Feb. 2025
This case could set a precedent for how similar claims are handled by the bottled water industry, potentially leading to stricter regulations on marketing and more robust standards for disclosing contaminants like microplastics and BPA.
—Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Feb. 2025
Their groundbreaking achievements set a precedent for elevating Black professionals in leadership roles within sports organizations.
—Shelby Stewart, Essence, 31 Jan. 2025
President Trump and Vice President Vance must step up and get East Palestine back on track and set a precedent for how the federal government should support an American community.
—Misti Allison, TIME, 1 Feb. 2025
See all Example Sentences for set a precedent 
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Wesley Stenzel, EW.com, 8 Feb. 2025
This case could set a precedent for how similar claims are handled by the bottled water industry, potentially leading to stricter regulations on marketing and more robust standards for disclosing contaminants like microplastics and BPA.
—Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Feb. 2025
Their groundbreaking achievements set a precedent for elevating Black professionals in leadership roles within sports organizations.
—Shelby Stewart, Essence, 31 Jan. 2025
President Trump and Vice President Vance must step up and get East Palestine back on track and set a precedent for how the federal government should support an American community.
—Misti Allison, TIME, 1 Feb. 2025
See all Example Sentences for set a precedent
Dictionary Entries Near set a precedent
Cite this Entry
“Set a precedent.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/set%20a%20precedent. Accessed 21 Feb. 2025.
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