beforehand

adverb or adjective

be·​fore·​hand bi-ˈfȯr-ˌhand 

bē-

1

a

: in anticipation

b

: in advance

2

: ahead of time : early

Synonyms

• early
• immediately

Examples of beforehand in a Sentence

if you arrive beforehand, we won't be entirely prepared yet

if you get ready beforehand, you won't have to rush at the last minute

Recent Examples on the Web

However, always check with your individual insurance plan for coverage beforehand. —Verywell Health, 27 Oct. 2025

Of course, some of those party guests already know each other, like Morgan, Sasha, and Esther, and the latter two bicker beforehand about how to best approach the Morgan-sized elephant in the room. —Kate Erbland, IndieWire, 24 Oct. 2025

Or watch a YouTube recap or two beforehand. —Eric Vilas-Boas, Vulture, 24 Oct. 2025

If bottled or canned, the product was chilled in the fridge beforehand and tasted directly from the container as well as poured over ice. —Adam Campbell-Schmitt, Bon Appetit Magazine, 23 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for beforehand

• analysand
• misunderstand
• ampersand
• behindhand
• bottomland
• contraband
• countermand
• dixieland
• fairyland
• fatherland
• firebrand
• hinterland

Kids Definition

beforehand

adverb

be·​fore·​hand -ˌhand 

: ahead of time : in advance