prior to

preposition

: in advance of : before

Usage of Prior to

Although prior to is occasionally criticized as a pretentious way of saying before, it is well-established in formal contexts, such as the annual reports of corporations. In some of these contexts, it serves to emphasize the procedural nature of something.

page makeup decisions are verified and approved prior to typesetting

—Publishers Weekly

Synonyms of prior to

• before
• previous to
• to

Examples of prior to in a Sentence

make sure all revisions are approved by the author prior to publication

Recent Examples on the Web

Ohtani had not struck out in any of his first 15 plate appearances of the tournament prior to this. —Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 15 Mar. 2026

Visitors with access requirements should reach out to the venue prior to their stay to organize accessibility support. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 Mar. 2026

The Timberwolves were the last Class 5A squad to repeat as champions prior to Summit. —Charles Baggarly, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 15 Mar. 2026

Heavier odors, like those left by perspiration, may require a baking soda soak prior to washing. —Melissa Locker, Southern Living, 15 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1706, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for prior to

• accrue
• ado
• ainu
• aircrew
• airscrew
• anew
• askew
• baboo
• babu
• bamboo
• beaucoup
• bijou

Kids Definition

prior to

preposition

: in advance of : before