Predates

Predates is a verb meaning to exist or occur earlier than something else; to precede in time. It is used to describe the temporal order of events, technologies, practices, or documents. In a sentence, a singular subject takes predates (The discovery predates the policy), while a plural subject uses predate (Copper tools predate iron tools).

In historical and scholarly writing, predates helps express relative timing without specifying exact dates. It is common in timelines, narratives, and comparisons such as archaeological finds, cultural developments, or technological sequences. For example, "Copper tools predate iron tools," and "Written records predates many ancient monuments" would require correct subject-verb agreement (Written records predate most ancient monuments).

Etymology and related terms: predates is formed from the prefix pre- meaning before and the word date, referencing a point in time. Related terms include antedate, which can mean to precede in time or to assign an earlier date to something, and postdate, which means to occur after or to date after. In practice, predates and antedate can be used somewhat interchangeably in casual contexts, but antedate often carries a more formal or retroactive sense.

Notes on usage: Predates is typically used when the exact date is unknown or when comparing sequences rather than stating precise chronologies. It is distinct from predation, which refers to the act of prey being hunted, and from predator, the hunter itself. As with any temporal term, clarity about the reference point (the event or object being compared to) is important for precise communication.