What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
antecedes
Example
The invention of the telephone antecedes the invention of the internet. [antecedes: verb]
Example
In this timeline, World War I antecedes World War II. [antecedes: verb]
precede
Example
Please let me precede you in line since I'm in a hurry. [precede: verb]
Example
The introduction chapter precedes the main chapters in this book. [precedes: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Precede is more commonly used than antecedes in everyday language. Precede is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while antecedes is less common and used in more specific situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between antecedes and precede?
While antecedes is typically associated with a less formal tone, precede is more formal and commonly used in academic or professional contexts.