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Featured Word C1

antecedent (noun)

An antecedent is a thing or event that existed before or logically precedes another. In grammar, it specifically refers to a word, phrase, or clause that a pronoun replaces or refers back to later in a sentence.

💬 Example

"We can't judge his current actions without looking at his personal antecedents."

💡 Memory Tip

Think of 'ANTE' (like in poker, you put the money in *before* the game starts) and 'CEDENT' (like a 'resident' who *goes...

🏛️ Origin

🔗 Synonyms
precursor predecessor forerunner ancestor history
⚠️ Common Mistakes

Using 'antecedent' when you mean 'precedent'. → The court followed the *precedent*.

Spelling it 'anticedent'. → Antecedent.

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