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predecessor

noun

/ˈpriːdɪsɛsə/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of predecessor

A person or thing that comes before another in time or in a sequence of events.
"The actor struggled to fill the shoes of his famous predecessor."

Detailed meaning of predecessor

In most cases, it refers to someone who held a position or office before someone else, such as a leader or a CEO. For example, the current president would be the predecessor of the next president, the previous model would be the predecessor of the new one. It can also refer to a product, a design, or an idea that precedes another and serves as a model or inspiration for it. In some fields like science, literature, art, technology, etc. it can also refer to an earlier work that sets a standard for later works in the same field. In some cases, the predecessor can also be a person who has influenced the development of a field, or who has been an inspiration for someone else's work.

Example sentences containing predecessor

1. Her predecessor laid the foundation for the company's success.
2. The current leader built upon the achievements of their predecessor.
3. The new model boasts improvements over its predecessor.
4. His predecessor's legacy continued to influence policy.
5. The novel surpassed the popularity of its predecessor.
6. The new mayor faced challenges left by her predecessor.

History and etymology of predecessor

The noun 'predecessor' has its origins in Latin. It is derived from the combination of two Latin words, 'prae,' meaning 'before,' and 'decessor,' which is formed from 'decidere,' meaning 'to go away' or 'to depart.' Therefore, etymologically, 'predecessor' can be understood as 'one who goes away before' or 'one who comes before in a sequence.' This term is used to describe a person or thing that precedes another in time or in a sequence of events. A predecessor is often someone who held a particular position or occupied a certain role before the current individual, emphasizing the idea of continuity and historical lineage. The etymology of 'predecessor' highlights the temporal and sequential relationship between two entities, with one being the forerunner or antecedent of the other.

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Further usage examples of predecessor

1. The technology surpassed the capabilities of its predecessor.
2. The new CEO aims to exceed the achievements of their predecessor.
3. The artist's latest work was a departure from their predecessor.
4. The successor honored the traditions of their predecessor.
5. The sequel lived up to the expectations set by its predecessor.
6. Her predecessor's tenure was marked by innovation and growth.
7. The invention was a breakthrough compared to its predecessor.
8. The new leader had big shoes to fill left by their predecessor.
9. The successor continued the legacy of their revered predecessor.
10. The product's design was an improvement over its predecessor.
11. The new software addressed the flaws of its predecessor.
12. The successor was chosen based on the recommendations of the predecessor.
13. The novel explored themes introduced by its predecessor.
14. The successor's vision built upon the foundation laid by their predecessor.
15. The new CEO's predecessor had a successful tenure at the company.
16. The smartphone's latest model was an improvement over its predecessor.
17. The new coach was determined to surpass the achievements of his predecessor.
18. The politician promised to continue the policies of his predecessor.
19. The artist's latest album was a departure from the style of his predecessor.
20. The new building was larger and more modern than its predecessor.
21. The new teacher was briefed on the teaching methods used by her predecessor.
22. The new model of car was more fuel-efficient than its predecessor.
23. The new law repealed a controversial policy of its predecessor.
24. The team's new captain had big shoes to fill after his predecessor retired.
25. The new smartphone had features that its predecessor lacked.