Definition of Unprecedented
Quick Meaning of Unprecedented
Something that has never happened before in history or experience; completely new.
Detailed Definition of Unprecedented
Never having happened or occurred before; without any previous example or parallel.
How to Pronounce Unprecedented
Stress pattern: oOooo (5-syllable word).
Tip: Stress second syllable: un-PRES-i-den-tid. Say 'un' quickly.
Watch out: Some say un-PREE-si-dent-id (wrong stress) or miss the final 'tid' sound.
Origin and Etymology of Unprecedented
From Latin praecedere (to go before), with un- prefix meaning 'not'.
How to Use Unprecedented in a Sentence
Each example shows “unprecedented” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The pandemic caused unprecedented disruption to businesses and schools worldwide.”
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“Climate scientists warn that heat waves of unprecedented intensity are becoming more frequent.”
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“She achieved unprecedented success by winning three gold medals in one competition.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Unprecedented
Common Synonyms for Unprecedented
Smart Synonyms for Unprecedented — When to Use Each
- novel
- for new and original; slightly more literary tone
- unheard-of
- for shocking or surprising because never seen before
- groundbreaking
- when emphasizing innovation and pioneering importance
- first-ever
- for the literal first occurrence of something
Common Collocations with Unprecedented
These phrases pair with “unprecedented” in everyday English:
- unprecedented growth
- unprecedented level
- unprecedented scale
- unprecedented demand
Common Mistakes When Using Unprecedented
Even fluent speakers slip up with “unprecedented”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: This is an unpredicent situation.
- ✓ Correct: This is an unprecedented situation.
- Why: 'Unpredicent' is not a word. 'Unprecedented' means never happened before.
- ✗ Wrong: The event was precedented by historical events.
- ✓ Correct: The event was unprecedented; nothing like it had happened before.
- Why: Use 'unprecedented' as an adjective; 'precedent' is a different word meaning an earlier example.
Other Forms of Unprecedented
- Adjective: unprecedented
- Adverb: unprecedentedly
Frequently Asked Questions About Unprecedented
What is the meaning of "Unprecedented"?
Something that has never happened before in history or experience; completely new.
How do you pronounce "Unprecedented"?
The IPA is /ʌnˈprɛsɪdɛntɪd/. Stress second syllable: un-PRES-i-den-tid. Say 'un' quickly.
What part of speech is "Unprecedented"?
"Unprecedented" is an adjective at B2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Unprecedented"?
Common synonyms include novel, unheard-of, groundbreaking.
How do you use "Unprecedented" in a sentence?
For example: "The pandemic caused unprecedented disruption to businesses and schools worldwide."