precedence The rules determining the order in which operations are carried out, if this is not defined unambiguously by brackets. For example, in most languages the expression a ∗ b + c

will be evaluated by doing the multiplication first, and brackets would be used to enforce the alternative order thus: a ∗ (b + c)

There is no consensus about precedence of operations in language, particularly when new operators may be introduced. A simple order used in Pascal is as follows: unary NOT multiplying operators adding operators relational operators

Other languages may have further operators such as exponentiation and further categories such as logic operators, whose position in the order would be defined. Operators of the same precedence are usually applied in order from left to right, but in some languages the order is undefined.

prec·e·dence / ˈpresədəns; priˈsēdns/ • n. the condition of being considered more important than someone or something else; priority in importance, order, or rank: his desire for power soon took precedence over any other consideration. ∎  the order to be ceremonially observed by people of different rank, according to an acknowledged or legally determined system: quarrels over precedence among the Bonaparte family marred the coronation.