What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
precedence
Example
The safety of the passengers takes precedence over everything else. [precedence: noun]
Example
I will give precedence to finishing this project before starting a new one. [precedence: verb]
primacy
Example
The primacy of human life is a fundamental principle in medical ethics. [primacy: noun]
Example
The CEO holds primacy over all other executives in the company. [primacy: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Precedence is more common than primacy in everyday language and is used in a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between precedence and primacy?
Primacy is more formal than precedence and is often used in academic or professional settings.
