What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
forerun
Example
The invention of the printing press foreran the Renaissance. [forerun: verb]
Example
The dark clouds forerun the storm that is coming. [forerun: verb]
Example
The athlete's success foreran a wave of interest in the sport. [foreran: past tense]
precede
Example
The appetizer precedes the main course in a meal. [precede: verb]
Example
The ceremony will be preceded by a reception. [preceded: past participle]
Example
The lead runner precedes the rest of the pack. [precedes: present tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Precede is more commonly used than forerun in everyday language. Precede is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while forerun is less common and often used in more specific or abstract contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between forerun and precede?
Both forerun and precede are formal words that can be used in academic or professional contexts. However, precede is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
