previous to

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 Society of London Theatre, an industry umbrella group, says ticket sales have surpassed the levels seen before the COVID-19 pandemic.
    ABC News, ABC News, 12 Apr. 2026
  • The team was 0-for-6 with runners in scoring position before Caballero’s eighth-inning double.
    Fiifi Frimpong, New York Daily News, 12 Apr. 2026
Preposition
  • Oil prices are likely to remain well above their levels prior to the Iran war, the consequences of which have choked global supply for the foreseeable future.
    Mike Sheen, CNBC, 15 Apr. 2026
  • Using both an 800-pound horse dummy and live horses, RSF Fire personnel learned the basics about safety around horses during emergencies, useful steps to stabilize a horse prior to a formal rescue team’s arrival, and how Rancho Santa Fe personnel can support a large animal rescue unit on scene.
    Karen Billing, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 Apr. 2026
Preposition
  • Her new boyfriend introduced her to Cornelius Garrison.
    Patrick Radden Keefe, New Yorker, 13 Apr. 2026
  • Based out of Fort Lauderdale, Brown travels east to west every week in his 18-wheeler, often driving up to 11-hour shifts and eating in his vehicle to stay on schedule.
    David Williams, Bon Appetit Magazine, 13 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Previous to.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/previous%20to. Accessed 19 Apr. 2026.

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