What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
progenitor
Example
My great-grandfather was the progenitor of our family business. [progenitor: noun]
Example
The philosopher is considered the progenitor of modern existentialism. [progenitor: noun]
Example
The original invention was the progenitor of many other similar products. [progenitor: noun]
precursor
Example
The dark clouds were a precursor to the storm that followed. [precursor: noun]
Example
The first computer was a precursor to the modern laptop. [precursor: noun]
Example
The artist's early works were precursors to his later masterpieces. [precursors: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Precursor is more commonly used than progenitor in everyday language. Precursor is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while progenitor is less common and refers to a more specific type of origin or source.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between progenitor and precursor?
Both progenitor and precursor are more commonly used in formal writing or academic contexts. However, progenitor may have a slightly more formal tone due to its association with lineage or ancestry.
