1. the condition of being considered more important than someone or something else; priority in importance, order, or position
2. the right to precede others in ceremonies or social situations
Usage: formal

Examples

• Safety takes precedence over speed in this factory.
• The emergency meeting took precedence over all other appointments.
• In diplomatic protocol, the ambassador has precedence over other officials.
• Family should take precedence over work sometimes.
• The judge ruled that federal law takes precedence over state law.
• At the ceremony, guests were seated according to precedence.
• Environmental concerns must take precedence in our planning.