Precursor
mediumpree-KUR-ser
noun
Definition
A person or thing that comes before another of the same kind; a forerunner
Examples
“The typewriter was a precursor to the modern computer.”
“Dark clouds are often precursors to rain.”
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Precursor is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "forerunner" or "harbinger" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "successor".
Related GRE Words
harbinger
A person or thing that announces or signals the approach of another
predecessor
A person who held a job or office before the current holder
tout
To advertise or promote enthusiastically
portent
A sign or warning that something, especially something momentous or calamitous, is likely to happen
foretoken
A sign of something to come; an omen
omen
An event regarded as a sign of future good or evil
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