Unprecedented Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˌʌnˈprɛtʃədɪd/

Part of Speech

Adjective

Definition

A thing that has occurred for the first time; a previously unknown or unprecedented event, situation, or circumstance.

Examples

The company’s sudden bankruptcy was an unprecedented crisis.
Global warming has led to unprecedented weather patterns.

Synonyms

New
Unheard of
Historic

Antonyms

Common
Ordinary
Familiar

Additional Information

Unprecedented events or situations often have significant impacts on individuals, communities, or societies. They can bring about change, challenge existing norms, or disrupt the status quo. Understanding the context and consequences of unprecedented events is crucial for effective response and management.

In recent years, the COVID-19 pandemic has brought about unprecedented global challenges, requiring coordinated efforts from governments, healthcare systems, and individuals worldwide.

Etymology

The word “unprecedented” originates from the phrase “un-precedent,” which literally means “without precedent.” It has been in use since the 15th century.

Usage Notes

When using the word “unprecedented,” it’s essential to consider the context and implications of the event or situation. Be precise in defining what makes it unprecedented, and avoid using it as a blanket term to describe any unusual or noteworthy event.

Cultural References

The concept of unprecedented has been explored in various forms of media, including literature, film, and television. For example, the 2014 film “Interstellar” features a storyline centered around an unprecedented phenomenon in the universe.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

“A new chapter in history” is an idiomatic phrase that implies the start of an unprecedented era or period.

Related Words or Phrases

Benchmark, innovation, paradigm shift, and turning point are related words or phrases that convey the idea of something new and unprecedented.

Collocations

Unprecedented often collocates with words like “event,” “situation,” “crisis,” “challenge,” or “change.”

Frequency of Use

Unprecedented has become a more frequent term in modern language, particularly in the context of global events, scientific discoveries, and technological advancements.

Common Misspellings

The most common misspellings of “unprecedented” are “unprecented,” “unprecdent,” and “unprecedentd.”