Definition of theretoforenext
as in yet
up to this or that time theretofore the couple hadn't given much thought to marriage, but the unplanned pregnancy changed everything

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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 theretofore The spectacle was sufficiently embarrassing that the Prime Minister decreed within a week that executions would theretofore be hidden behind prison doors. — Lauren Collins, New Yorker, 1 Apr. 2026 The reaction to the release of All Quiet on the Western Front in Germany marked an early Hollywood encounter with the pathological race hatred of a theretofore unknown political party. — Thomas Doherty, The Hollywood Reporter, 13 Sep. 2022 While deal volume in July and August still trends slower, recent years have enjoyed more robust markets during this period than theretofore. — Frederick Peters, Forbes, 5 July 2022 There weren’t many bright colors, but some theretofore unnoticed textural quirks—on clothes, on faces—went wild with deep, scrutinizing, photographic detail. — Vinson Cunningham, The New Yorker, 20 Dec. 2021
Recent Examples of Synonyms for theretofore
Adverb
  • However, the result has not yet undergone full independent academic review.
    — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 7 Nov. 2026
  • West Metro Fire Rescue Officials have not yet said if there is a suspect in the crash or if an arrest has been made.
    — Christa Swanson, CBS News, 7 Nov. 2026
Adverb
  • The combination of populism and anti-Zionism has introduced a strain of political rhetoric that heretofore has had little place within the Democratic Party.
    — Jonathan Chait, The Atlantic, 30 July 2026
  • But as Marcus shrewdly explains, the precedent for TV voters to catch up to Season 4 on a show that’s heretofore gone unnominated is almost nonexistent.
    — Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 10 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Theretofore.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/theretofore. Accessed 15 Nov. 2026.

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