Predecessor
Definition 1 of 3
Pro Tip 1/3
Time or Order
Use 'predecessor' to denote a sequence of people or things. The iPhone 8 is the predecessor of the iPhone X.
Pro Tip 2/3
Not Always Positive
Being a predecessor does not imply superiority; it's about timing. Even as a predecessor, the old system had many flaws.
Pro Tip 3/3
Job Succession
Use it for someone who held a job before the current person. She visited her predecessor to discuss the responsibilities of the role.