PREVIOUSNESS
\pɹˈiːvɪəsnəs], \pɹˈiːvɪəsnəs], \p_ɹ_ˈiː_v_ɪ__ə_s_n_ə_s]\
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Priority in time; the previous question, a mode of moving the rejection of a motion in a deliberating assembly,-a member gets a motion put, another holding different views, without moving a direct negative, may simply move "the previous question," and the adoption of the latter motion secures the rejection of the former. Note.-This practice is borrowed from the usage of the British Parliament, being an ingenious mode of endeavouring to avoid a vote on any question that is proposed. When a question is about to be put by the Speaker, a member may interpose by moving that the same question be now put, and if this be negatived, then the main question cannot be put at that time.
By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H.
Word of the day
Decanoates
- Salts and esters of the 10-carbon monocarboxylic acid-decanoic acid.