precedes
v. B2 Upper Intermediate US //pɹɪˈsidz// UK //pɹɪsˈiːdz// pre·cedes
v. to happen or come before something else in time or order.
v. to come before something in time, order, rank, or position.
A short introduction precedes the main story.
In a formal dinner, the appetizer usually precedes the main course to prepare the palate.
The intense diplomatic negotiations that precede a formal treaty are often more significant than the signing ceremony itself, as they resolve the underlying conflicts.
Usage
The verb is transitive and requires a direct object.
Pitfall
The rain precedes to the storm.The rain precedes the storm.Precede is a transitive verb; it should not be followed by the preposition 'to'.