previous to

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

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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
  • Minaj will attend as a guest of Fox News, which is also throwing its own VIP party before Saturday's official dinner, Fox confirmed to USA TODAY.
    Rebecca Morin, USA Today, 26 Apr. 2026
  • Several days before the draft, McVay and Snead described their connection.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 26 Apr. 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
  • Seeking offense, New York plans to designate Tommy Pham for assignment and has agreed to a major league contract with Austin Slater, a pair of people familiar with the move said, speaking to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the decisions were not announced.
    Ronald Blum, Chicago Tribune, 27 Apr. 2026
  • So Rantanen’s somewhat blasé attitude following Saturday’s wrenching Game 4 loss to the Minnesota Wild — losing the lead with barely five minutes to go on Marcus Foligno’s equalizer, then losing the game in overtime on Matt Boldy’s deflection — was at least well earned.
    Mark Lazerus, New York Times, 27 Apr. 2026

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“Previous to.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/previous%20to. Accessed 29 Apr. 2026.

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