preceder
to precede
verb preh-seh-DEHR Rare
Origin: From Latin praecedere 'to go before'.
Usage Note
Preceder is a regular -er verb meaning to come before in time, rank, or position. It is formal and more common in writing than speech; everyday conversation often uses ir antes de instead. Do not confuse with presidir (to preside over) or proceder (to proceed/come from), which sound similar.
Examples
"El silencio que precedió al anuncio era tenso."
Natural Translation
The silence that preceded the announcement was tense.

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