# precondition

/ˌpɹikənˈdɪʃən/ (US) · /pɹˌiːkəndˈɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/precondition
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

something that must happen or be true before something else can happen.

For teachers: a necessary prior condition that must be satisfied before a subsequent event, action, or process can occur.

## Examples

- Good health is a precondition for hard training.
- The bank says a steady income is a precondition for approving the loan.
- Lasting peace in the region has one clear precondition: both sides must trust the ceasefire enough to lay down their weapons.

## Synonyms

prerequisite

## Usage notes

- Often followed by 'for' plus a noun or gerund ('a precondition for success').

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