timing vs preceding

timing is a noun but preceding is not a noun.

Word	Noun	Adjective	Verb	Adverb
timing	Yes	No	No	No
preceding	No	Yes	No	No

timing (noun)	preceding (noun)
the regulation of occurrence, pace, or coordination to achieve a desired effect (as in music, theater, athletics, mechanics)
the time when something happens

timing (adjective)	preceding (adjective)
	existing or coming before
	of a person who has held and relinquished a position or office