A precursor of something is a similar thing that happened or existed before it, often something which led to the existence or development of that thing.
例句
Real tennis, an ancient precursor of the modern game, originated in the eleventh century...室内网球,现代网球运动的古老前身,起源于11世纪。He said that the deal should not be seen as a precursor to a merger.他说该笔交易不应该被看作是合并的前兆。
英汉词典释义
n.
先驱,先锋,前身;先行者;先兆,前兆
Error is often the precursor of what is correct,but conceit is the prelude to a fall.错误往往是正确的先导,骄傲是跌跤的前奏。
英英词典释义
Noun
1. a substance from which another substance is formed (especially by a metabolic reaction)
2. a person who goes before or announces the coming of another
3. an indication of the approach of something or someone