previous to

Definition of previous tonext
as in before
earlier than his passport arrived just previous to his trip

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of previous to The actor had lived in the home for some time previous to the renovation, and is seen walking through the bare-bones home sharing stories about each room before the gut job began. Claudia Williams, Architectural Digest, 12 Dec. 2024 In the four years previous to that Flamengo and Palmeiras dominated South American football winning two titles each. Joseph O'Sullivan, Forbes, 9 Dec. 2024 The other alleged incident happened previous to the plaintiff’s full-time employment with Ye’s operations, which started in 2021. Dennis Romero, NBC News, 13 Oct. 2024 Pulte lived in Florida previous to his nomination to lead the independent agency, but his family has roots in metro Detroit. Susan Tompor, Freep.com, 14 Jan. 2022 See All Example Sentences for previous to
Recent Examples of Synonyms for previous to
Preposition
  • Even before the repeal, many automakers were scaling back their hybrid and EV ambitions over the last few years.
    Julian Torres, CNN Money, 22 Feb. 2026
  • The ground-floor lounge sets the tone with soaring ceilings, plush couches, and a patisserie, before the city’s fastest elevator zips you to the 103rd floor for check-in and your first jaw-dropping view.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Feb. 2026
Preposition
  • However, officers are reviewing information that suggests the victim may have been undergoing a cosmetic procedure prior to his death.
    Raechal Shewfelt, Entertainment Weekly, 24 Feb. 2026
  • High-profile defender Alan Jackson had initially been hired by the family to represent Reiner but abruptly quit in January prior to a court appearance.
    David Matthews, New York Daily News, 24 Feb. 2026
Preposition
  • The next morning, Billie pulls up to the clinic, with Albert still a mess in the back seat.
    Jordan Hoffman, Entertainment Weekly, 23 Feb. 2026
  • Her reporting has taken her all over the world, from Patagonia to Tokyo to the Amazon Rainforest, and she is fascinated by the ways that travel intersects with style, food, music, nightlife, identity, and politics.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Previous to.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/previous%20to. Accessed 26 Feb. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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