Formal and Informal Expressions of predate

In different contexts, you can replace 'predate' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'antecede, precede' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'come before, happen before' is a commonplace synonym.

predate: Explore its Definition & Usage

predate Definition

1to exist or happen before something else
2to prey on something

Using predate: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "predate" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The church predated the school by several decades.
Example
Dinosaurs predated humans by millions of years.
Example
The company's unethical practices predate the current CEO.
Example
The lion preys on weaker animals in the savannah.

predate Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for predate

Antonyms for predate

Phrases with predate

predate on
to hunt and kill other animals for food
Example
The tiger preys on deer and other herbivores.
predate back to
to have existed or happened since a particular time in the past
Example
The tradition of exchanging gifts predates back to ancient Rome.
predate upon
to exploit or take advantage of someone or something
Example
The company has been accused of preying upon vulnerable customers.

Origins of predate

from Latin 'praedari', meaning 'to plunder'

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Summary: predate in Brief

'Predate' [pree-deyt] means to exist or happen before something else, as in 'The church predated the school by several decades.' It can also mean to prey on something, as in 'The lion preys on weaker animals in the savannah.' The verb extends into phrases like 'predate back to,' denoting existence since a particular time, and 'predate upon,' implying exploitation.