Merriam-Webster Logo
SINCE 1828
Menu
×

Thesaurus

previous

adjective

Synonyms and Antonyms of previous

going before another in time or order
  • The new instructor should consult with the previous teacher about the lesson plans.
  • The previous math problem also included a reference to store discounts.
Synonyms of previous

antecedent, anterior, foregoing, former, precedent, preceding, prior
Words Related to previous

advance, early, premature

earliest, first, inaugural, initial, maiden, original, pioneer

preexisting

introductory, preliminary

erstwhile, whilom
Near Antonyms of previous

advanced, late

closing, concluding, final, last, latest, latter, terminal, ultimate
Antonyms of previous

after, ensuing, following, later, posterior, subsequent, succeeding

Synonym Discussion of previous

preceding, antecedent, foregoing, previous, prior, former, anterior mean being before. preceding usually implies being immediately before in time or in place.
    • the preceding sentence
antecedent applies to order in time and may suggest a causal relation.
    • conditions antecedent to the revolution
foregoing applies chiefly to statements.
    • the foregoing remarks
previous and prior imply existing or occurring earlier, but prior often adds an implication of greater importance.
    • a child from a previous marriage
    • a prior obligation
former implies always a definite comparison or contrast with something that is latter.
    • the former name of the company
anterior applies to position before or ahead of usually in space, sometimes in time or order.
    • the anterior lobe of the brain

Learn More about previous

  1. See words that rhyme with previous Dictionary: Definition of previous Spanish Central: Translation of previous Nglish: Translation of previous for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of previous for Arabic speakers

Seen and Heard

What made you want to look up previous? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

show hide

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Words at Play

Ask the Editors

Word Games