1
2
as in against
preceding in space
the children always insisted on running before their parents
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
as in earlier
so as to precede something in order of time
their arrival was completely expected because a messenger had gone before
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of before
Joe Davidson, Sacbee.com, 29 Mar. 2026
The Jazz had 10 assists and 10 turnovers before halftime.
—ABC News, 29 Mar. 2026
Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 3 Apr. 2026
Today, as so many times before, some raise their voices.
—Chicago Tribune, 3 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for before
Preposition
Latson competed in her first Sweet 16, having played her previous three collegiate seasons at Florida State before her transfer to South Carolina.
—Joe Davidson, Sacbee.com, 29 Mar. 2026
The Jazz had 10 assists and 10 turnovers before halftime.
—ABC News, 29 Mar. 2026
Adverb
All three Americans are experienced astronauts who have been to space before on ventures to the International Space Station, while Hansen, a veteran aviator, is making his first spaceflight.
—Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 3 Apr. 2026
Today, as so many times before, some raise their voices.
—Chicago Tribune, 3 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for before
Recent Examples of Synonyms for before
Preposition
-
Liveried valets addressed me by name, whisked away my luggage, and accompanied me up a flight of stairs to the Waldorf’s signature bar and lobby lounge, Peacock Alley.—
Condé Nast,
Condé Nast Traveler,
30 Mar. 2026
-
In the face of this uncertainty, companies and other organizations are preparing for a world in which the conflict — and subsequent jolt to crude prices — becomes a long-term challenge, affecting everything from travel planning to mail delivery.—
Dylan Butts,
CNBC,
30 Mar. 2026
Preposition
-
The Knicks went on to defeat the tanking, depleted Grizzlies handily, a 130-119 win good enough to snap a depressing three-game losing streak against the Charlotte Hornets, Houston Rockets and Oklahoma City Thunder.—
Kristian Winfield,
New York Daily News,
2 Apr. 2026
-
July 23 – August 22 When emotions pull against big hopes, choose grace.—
Tarot.com,
Hartford Courant,
2 Apr. 2026
Adverb
-
Like many hotels in Japan, the staff here are specifically trained to assist disabled guests, but calling ahead to notify the staff of your needs will go a long way to smoother experience.—
Condé Nast,
Condé Nast Traveler,
3 Apr. 2026
-
Being gentle with yourself is a form of bravery, so go ahead and indulge your softer side.—
Tarot.com,
Sun Sentinel,
3 Apr. 2026
Adverb
-
United Teachers Los Angeles, which represents about 37,000 teachers, and SEIU Local 99, which represents roughly 30,000 school support staff, have already set April 14 as a potential strike date if contract agreements are not reached with the district.—
Teresa Liu,
Daily News,
4 Apr. 2026
-
Poehling already has a career high in points and is one shy of his personal best for goals.—
Andrew Knoll,
Oc Register,
4 Apr. 2026
Preposition
-
The creation of this content included the use of AI based on templates created, reviewed and edited by journalists in the newsroom.—
CA Weather Bot,
Sacbee.com,
1 Apr. 2026
-
Together, the potential departures of two of Kansas City’s most experienced lawmakers — one on his own terms, one forced — could play a role in shaping the city’s future and diminish its ability to secure local priorities at the federal level.—
Kacen Bayless,
Kansas City Star,
1 Apr. 2026
Adverb
-
Two diplomats said the meeting of the council's 15 members and the vote were set for Saturday morning, rather than Friday as earlier planned.—
Cybele Mayes-Osterman,
USA Today,
4 Apr. 2026
-
Mark Vientos reached base safely four times, but slugger Juan Soto exited early with right calf tightness.—
CBS News,
CBS News,
4 Apr. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Before.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/before. Accessed 4 Apr. 2026.
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