unprecedented
/ˌʌnˈprɛsɪdɛntɪd/adjective★Intermediate
formal
Never done or known before; without precedent
The scientist made an unprecedented discovery in quantum physics.
The scientist found something in quantum physics that had never been found before.
The government took unprecedented measures to control the outbreak.
The government implemented actions that had never been taken before to stop the spread.
💡
Often used to emphasize the extreme or historic nature of an event or situation.
Collocations
unprecedented successextremely successful in a way that has never happened beforeunprecedented timesa period of extreme or unique circumstances
Synonyms
Antonyms
💡Pro Tip
Usage Tip
Use 'unprecedented' to describe something that has never happened before, often in formal or serious contexts.
📖Word Origin
From Latin 'praecedentia' (preceding), with the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not'.
📝Usage Notes
Often used in formal contexts to describe events, actions, or situations that are historically significant or extreme.
Word Breakdown
un-
not
prefixprecedent
something that has happened before
rootEnglish Dictionary