precede
Definitions
To come or go before in time, order, or rank
在……之前发生；先于；处在……前面
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedpre- (before) + cede (go) = "go before" in time or order. The thing that goes before is a precedent; what has no precedent is unprecedented.
Root ced still carries 90 more wordsUsage Guide
Spelling vs proceed: PREcede (one e) = come before; PROceed (double e) = go forward. Lookalikes with opposite directions. Often passive: 'be preceded by.' Don't confuse with proceed in meaning OR spelling.
Example Sentences
- 1.
A short introduction precedes each chapter of the book.
- 2.
The storm was preceded by an eerie, total silence.
- 3.
In the dictionary, 'cat' precedes 'dog' alphabetically.
Easily Confused
precede vs proceed — Spelling AND meaning trap. PREcede = come before (one event before another). PROceed = move forward / continue (double e). A short speech can precede the meeting, then the meeting can proceed. Tip: PRE = before, PRO = forward.