What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
precedential
Example
The court's precedential ruling set a new standard for future cases. [precedential: adjective]
Example
The company's decision to offer unlimited vacation time was precedential in the industry. [precedential: adjective]
authoritative
Example
The book on the history of the Roman Empire is considered authoritative in the field. [authoritative: adjective]
Example
The doctor spoke in an authoritative tone, reassuring the patient of their diagnosis. [authoritative: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Authoritative is more commonly used than precedential in everyday language. Authoritative is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while precedential is more specific and limited to legal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between precedential and authoritative?
Both precedential and authoritative can be used in formal contexts, but precedential is more likely to be used in technical or legal writing, while authoritative can be used in a variety of formal and informal contexts.
