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preponderance

Preponderance (noun) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

noun

IPA:

/priˈpɑndrəns/

What does preponderance mean?

The state or quality of being greater in number, quantity, or importance.
"The preponderance of crime in the area raised concerns among local residents."

Detailed Meaning of Preponderance

It implies an overwhelming or significant majority or dominance of one particular thing over another. For instance, in a legal context, the term 'preponderance of evidence' refers to the amount of evidence necessary to prove a case, where the evidence is more convincing and persuasive than the evidence presented by the other party. In such a case, the preponderance of evidence is said to favor one party over the other. Similarly, in everyday use, the term can be used to describe a situation where one thing or idea is more prevalent or influential than another, indicating its preponderance in that particular context.

Example Sentences for Preponderance

1. The preponderance of evidence pointed to his innocence.
2. The jury made their decision based on the preponderance of facts presented.
3. Despite the preponderance of healthy options, he still chose fast food.
4. A preponderance of information can sometimes lead to confusion.
5. In the debate, her argument had the preponderance.
6. The preponderance of blame fell on the team leader.

Origin and Etymology of Preponderance

The noun 'preponderance' has its etymological roots in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'praeponderantia,' which is a combination of 'prae,' meaning 'before' or 'greater,' and 'ponderans,' which is the present participle of 'ponderare,' meaning 'to weigh' or 'to consider.' Therefore, when we examine the etymology of 'preponderance,' it essentially conveys the state or quality of being greater in number, quantity, or importance. The term underscores the idea of something weighing more heavily, either in terms of numerical superiority, quantity, or significance, making it a fitting word to describe situations where one element outweighs or prevails over others.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the noun preponderance:

insignificance

minority

rarity

dominance

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Preponderance

1. In civil cases, a decision is typically based on a preponderance of evidence.
2. There was a preponderance of male employees in the tech industry.
3. The preponderance of his wealth came from smart investments.
4. In this analysis, the preponderance of data supports our hypothesis.
5. His book collection had a preponderance of science fiction novels.
6. The survey revealed a preponderance of public support for the bill.
7. A preponderance of negative reviews might impact the business badly.
8. The study showed a preponderance of elderly people in the population.
9. She had a preponderance of vintage clothes in her wardrobe.
10. The preponderance of sweets in his diet led to a dentist appointment.
11. There was a preponderance of wildlife in the preserved forest area.
12. The committee was trying to find a preponderance of reasons to fund the project.
13. Despite a preponderance of obstacles, he persevered to reach his goal.
14. The preponderance of evidence supported her case, leading to a swift verdict.
15. In the debate, the preponderance of facts favored the opposition's argument.
16. The preponderance of responsibilities in his job made work-life balance challenging.
17. Her preponderance of knowledge on the topic impressed the entire team.
18. The preponderance of votes secured his victory in the election.
19. A preponderance of stars illuminated the night sky in all its splendor.
20. The preponderance of traffic on the highway caused long delays.
21. His preponderance of talent in music earned him a prestigious scholarship.
22. The preponderance of books on the shelf displayed his love for reading.
23. The preponderance of colorful flowers made the garden a vibrant paradise.
24. In the courtroom, the preponderance of witnesses corroborated her story.