What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
predecessor
Example
My predecessor at this company was very successful. [predecessor: noun]
Example
This software is an improvement over its predecessor. [predecessor: noun]
Example
The Renaissance was a predecessor to the Enlightenment. [predecessor: noun]
forerunner
Example
The robin is considered a forerunner of spring. [forerunner: noun]
Example
The dark clouds were a forerunner of the storm. [forerunner: noun]
Example
Steve Jobs was a forerunner in the field of personal computing. [forerunner: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Predecessor is more commonly used than forerunner in everyday language, especially in a professional or organizational context. Forerunner is less common but can be used in a variety of contexts, including science, history, and literature.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between predecessor and forerunner?
Both predecessor and forerunner are formal words that are appropriate for use in academic, professional, or technical writing.
