Synonyms of previous

previous

adjective

ˈprē-vē-əs 

as in preceding

going before another in time or order

the new instructor should consult with the previous teacher about the lesson plans

the previous math problem also included a reference to store discounts

Synonyms & Similar Words

• preceding
• prior
• earliest
• early
• initial
• former
• precedent
• original
• first
• foregoing
• antecedent
• anterior
• introductory
• preliminary
• advance
• premature
• inaugural
• preexisting
• pioneer
• erstwhile
• maiden
• whilom

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• subsequent
• following
• later
• after
• ensuing
• succeeding
• posterior
• last
• late
• final
• advanced
• latter
• latest
• concluding
• ultimate
• terminal
• closing

Synonym Chooser

How is the word previous distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of previous are antecedent, anterior, foregoing, former, preceding, and prior. While all these words mean "being before," previous and prior imply existing or occurring earlier, but prior often adds an implication of greater importance.

a child from a previous marriage

a prior obligation

Where would antecedent be a reasonable alternative to previous?

The synonyms antecedent and previous are sometimes interchangeable, but antecedent applies to order in time and may suggest a causal relation.

conditions antecedent to the revolution

In what contexts can anterior take the place of previous?

While the synonyms anterior and previous are close in meaning, anterior applies to position before or ahead of usually in space, sometimes in time or order.

the anterior lobe of the brain

When might foregoing be a better fit than previous?

In some situations, the words foregoing and previous are roughly equivalent. However, foregoing applies chiefly to statements.

the foregoing remarks

When is it sensible to use former instead of previous?

Although the words former and previous have much in common, former implies always a definite comparison or contrast with something that is latter.

the former name of the company

When can preceding be used instead of previous?

The meanings of preceding and previous largely overlap; however, preceding usually implies being immediately before in time or in place.

the preceding sentence

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of previous

The Ellison family bought Paramount from its previous controlling shareholders, the Redstones, in August and more cost cutting has been anticipated, even as new management has spent millions to acquire rights to show UFC matches as well as the digital opinion site The Free Press. —Brian Steinberg, Variety, 29 Oct. 2025

Though the three-day poll measures a 2-point drop since the previous survey, the difference is within the margin of error, maintaining the president's steady ratings. —Zachary Schermele, USA Today, 29 Oct. 2025

The changes follow previous Character AI safety measures, such as a notification directing users to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline when suicide or self-harm is mentioned. —Lisa Eadicicco, CNN Money, 29 Oct. 2025

Despite Ravnik's previous role as one of Swift's own backup dancers on her Eras Tour, the couple did not make it out of week seven safely. —Tabitha Parent, PEOPLE, 29 Oct. 2025

Phrases Containing previous

• previous to