PREVIOUS TO Synonyms: 18 Similar and Opposite Words

previous to

preposition

Definition of previous to

as in before

earlier than his passport arrived just previous to his trip

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

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 Scott Cooper had offered me a movie previous to Deliver Me from Nowhere. — Matt Grobar, Deadline, 31 July 2025 His six league goals last season represent a modest return, especially after back-to-back double-digit campaigns previous to this. — Conor O'Neill, New York Times, 20 June 2025 With nine more seasons under his belt as the head coach of the Carolina Panthers previous to that, he's recorded a 102-103-2 overall record. — George Monastiriakos, Newsweek, 30 Dec. 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

Perez chugged around the bases before belly-flopping into third base with his trademark smile.

— Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 30 July 2026
Cox then walked into frame wearing a light pink bathrobe before draping her dark hair over Aniston’s head.

— Angelique Brenes, PEOPLE, 30 July 2026

Definition of before

Preposition

Dean Smith, who was named Charlotte's coach prior to the 2024 season, has 40 regular-season wins in his first three seasons are a club-best and tied for 11th in MLS history (post-shootout era).

— ABC News, ABC News, 25 July 2026
The Yankees were extremely busy prior to last year’s deadline.

— Gary Phillips, New York Daily News, 25 July 2026

Definition of prior to

Preposition

Supply began 2025 near $205 billion, crossed $300 billion on October 3 after 47% year-to-date growth, and peaked this May.

— Zennon Kapron, Forbes.com, 28 July 2026
His own organization, My Brother’s Keeper, spent around $27,000 this year alone on Uber vouchers to get participants to their events.

— Rebecca Noel, Charlotte Observer, 28 July 2026

Definition of to

Browse Nearby Words

previously

previous to

prevision

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Style

“Previous to.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/previous%20to. Accessed 1 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of previous to

preposition

Example Sentences

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