previous to

Definition of previous tonext
as in before
earlier than his passport arrived just previous to his trip

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of previous to Researchers tested this process, known as photothermal catalysis, in the laboratory using a simulant based on samples of lunar regolith returned to Earth by China's Chang'e 5 mission (the lunar samples are far too previous to destroy in such experiments, which is why a simulant is used instead). Keith Cooper, Space.com, 17 July 2025 With nine more seasons under his belt as the head coach of the Carolina Panthers previous to that, he's recorded a 102-103-2 overall record. George Monastiriakos, Newsweek, 30 Dec. 2024 The actor had lived in the home for some time previous to the renovation, and is seen walking through the bare-bones home sharing stories about each room before the gut job began. Claudia Williams, Architectural Digest, 12 Dec. 2024 Pulte lived in Florida previous to his nomination to lead the independent agency, but his family has roots in metro Detroit. Susan Tompor, Freep.com, 14 Jan. 2022 See All Example Sentences for previous to
Recent Examples of Synonyms for previous to
Preposition
  • The hearts and minds of Braves players were on Bobby Cox on a sunny evening at Dodger Stadium before the middle game of a three-game series against the Dodgers — a game that meant very little, considering the news of the day.
    Chad Bishop, AJC.com, 10 May 2026
  • Don't conflate climate — the science of averages — with weather forecasts three days before the eclipse.
    Jamie Carter, Space.com, 10 May 2026
Preposition
  • There was no discussion or comment prior to the 7-2 vote, with council members Steve Thoren and Rose Martinez abstaining.
    Gloria Casas, Chicago Tribune, 28 Apr. 2026
  • History belies that interpretation, as prior to the amendment, common law prevailed and all (except Blacks, Amerindians and offspring of diplomats) were regarded as citizens at birth (one of the unenumerated rights of the Ninth Amendment).
    Voice of the People, New York Daily News, 28 Apr. 2026
Preposition
  • Subscribe to read this story ad-free Get unlimited access to ad-free articles and exclusive content.
    Joe Kottke, NBC news, 11 May 2026
  • The United States has agreed to provide a total of $38 billion in military aid to Israel from 2018 to 2028.
    Karissa Waddick, USA Today, 11 May 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Previous to.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/previous%20to. Accessed 12 May. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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

More from Merriam-Webster