precedent
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precedent
An earlier case or earlier decision that serves as a model or justification for later, similar cases. The term is used especially in law, but also in general language.
Das Urteil in diesem Prozess könnte einen Präzedenzfall für tausende ähnliche Klagen schaffen.
The ruling in this trial could create a precedent for thousands of similar lawsuits.
The word is composed of 'Präzedenz' and 'Fall'. 'Präzedenz' comes from the Latin word for 'to precede'. A 'Präzedenzfall' (precedent) is therefore literally a 'previous case' that serves as a model.
Für diese Situation gibt es noch keinen Präzedenzfall.
There is still no precedent for this situation.
'Präzedenzfall' (precedent) is often used with the verb 'schaffen' (to create). Other typical phrases are 'einen Präzedenzfall darstellen' (to constitute a precedent) or 'sich auf einen Präzedenzfall berufen' (to rely on a precedent).
Mit dieser Entscheidung hat das Gericht einen wichtigen Präzedenzfall geschaffen.
With this decision, the court created an important precedent.
Although the term comes from legal language, it is also used in everyday life. It then describes any kind of decision that serves as a model for future, similar situations, for example in a company or family.
Die Erlaubnis für Homeoffice in dieser Abteilung könnte ein Präzedenzfall für das ganze Unternehmen sein.
Permission to work from home in this department could be a precedent for the whole company.
novelty
'Novum' and 'Präzedenzfall' can both describe something special that was not normal before. A 'Novum' is simply something new or something happening for the first time. A 'Präzedenzfall' is an earlier case or decision that later serves as an example for similar cases. The words can be confused because a new case can later become a precedent. But at the moment when something is new, you are more likely to say 'Novum'. If the case is important as a model for later decisions, 'Präzedenzfall' is the right fit.
Das Urteil gilt als Präzedenzfall für ähnliche Streitigkeiten.
The ruling is considered a precedent for similar disputes.
Dass die Sitzung online stattfindet, ist für den Verein ein Novum.
The fact that the meeting is taking place online is a first for the association.