Glossary of Linguistic Terms

Antecedent

Definition: 

An antecedent is a word, phrase, or clause referred to endophorically by another expression which precedes or follows it.

Examples: 

(English)

In the following construction, the boy is the antecedent of who:

  • The boy who pitched the game is worn out.
  • In the following construction, a towel is the antecedent of one:

  • If you need one, there’s a towel in the top drawer.
  • See Also: 

    Glossary Hierarchy