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

Movement in the first round from the Cowboys has typically come on draft day rather than beforehand. —Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 31 Mar. 2026

In a few days you will be invited to join the official Slack community but this is not essential for observation and recording beforehand. —Harry Bennett, Space.com, 31 Mar. 2026

Whether the Knicks clinch a postseason spot with another win over the Rockets or a 76ers loss beforehand, the Knicks will clinch a playoff spot for the fifth time in six years. —Matthew Davis, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Mar. 2026

Planning for the attack began days beforehand, the FBI said, intensifying on March 9. —Holmes Lybrand, CNN Money, 30 Mar. 2026