先例 — meaning in English

English meaning

• precedent noun An earlier case, decision, or action used as a guide or justification for a similar one later.

Senses

先例 is used for these senses in English:

• precedent Happening or taking place earlier in time; previous or preceding. [from 14th c.]
• precedent An act in the past which may be used as an example to help decide the outcome of similar instances in the future.

precedent — full definition

1. noun An earlier case, decision, or action used as a guide or justification for a similar one later.
2. adj Coming before in time or order.