PRIOR TO Synonyms: 18 Similar and Opposite Words

prior to

preposition

Definition of prior to

as in before

earlier than make sure all revisions are approved by the author prior to publication

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 prior to Despite Doval’s shortcomings in the Bronx, a source said that a few teams had checked on him prior to Saturday’s trade. — Gary Phillips, New York Daily News, 1 Aug. 2026 Tumultuous family life preceded mass shooting During Colt Gray's sentencing hearing, multiple witnesses testified about the family's chaotic home life prior to the shooting. — N'dea Yancey-Bragg, USA Today, 31 July 2026 Neither Sotheby’s nor attorneys for Bouvier responded to ARTnews’s requests for comment prior to publication. — Daniel Cassady, ARTnews.com, 31 July 2026 The show was renewed for a fourth season, with Golden Globe-winning Sylvester Stallone at the helm, prior to the third season airing its first episode. — Josh Kelly, Oklahoman, 31 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for prior to

Recent Examples of Synonyms for prior to

Preposition

And the Santa Ana winds are blowing in September 1981, mentioned in a news report before an announcement of the latest Trawler victim in the season premiere.

— Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 6 Aug. 2026
According to Illinois State Board of Elections records, the law group contributed $15,000 to Benton’s campaign in 2024 before his reelection that November.

— Rick Pearson, Chicago Tribune, 6 Aug. 2026

Definition of before

Preposition

The six Bakersfield locations hosted their grand openings three weeks previous to last weekend’s openings.

— Sean Timberlake, Sacbee.com, 27 May 2026
Court papers say the note was written previous to his suicide and in connection with an earlier apparent suicide attempt.

— USA Today, USA Today, 7 May 2026

Definition of previous to

Preposition

Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige reacted to the sequel’s box-office success in a new interview with Variety.

— Jack Smart, PEOPLE, 4 Aug. 2026
From environmental factors to watering and fertilizing regimens, here are some of the most common reasons why crepe myrtles don’t flower and what to do about it.

— Lauren Landers, The Spruce, 4 Aug. 2026

Definition of to

Browse Nearby Words

priority

prior to

priory

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“Prior to.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/prior%20to. Accessed 8 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of prior to

preposition

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