Synonyms of beforehand

beforehand

adverb

bi-ˈfȯr-ˌhand 

1

as in early

before the usual or expected time

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

• early
• immediately
• prematurely
• promptly
• instantly
• inopportunely
• unseasonably
• precociously
• presently
• punctually
• seasonably
• pronto
• apropos
• betimes

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• late
• belatedly
• tardily

2

as in earlier

so as to precede something in order of time

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

• earlier
• ahead
• before
• already
• early
• previously
• afore
• shortly
• preliminarily
• in advance
• anteriorly
• now
• antecedently
• soon
• formerly
• first
• prematurely
• before long
• first off
• a priori
• presently
• erelong

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• later
• afterward
• after
• subsequently
• next
• behind
• by and by

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of beforehand

The installation construction will start about six weeks before its reveal with one of the most iconic features, the piece revealing the name of the champions gate, being put in place shortly beforehand. —Meghan Montemurro, Chicago Tribune, 18 Jan. 2026

Depending on your room’s location, navigating between the multiple elevators and narrow hallways could be difficult for those with mobility challenges, so be sure to inquire beforehand. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Jan. 2026

Thinking through your party setup with intention beforehand and eliminating anything that requires you to spend active time in the kitchen instead of on the couch means that after kickoff, the only things left to stress about will be yard lines and touchdowns. —Alaina Chou, Bon Appetit Magazine, 16 Jan. 2026

The cause of the confrontation is unclear, and the video does not capture what, if anything, happened beforehand. —Marley Malenfant, Austin American Statesman, 15 Jan. 2026