prior to

Definition of prior tonext
as in before
earlier than make sure all revisions are approved by the author prior to publication

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 prior to While the outgoing Congress typically passes a series of bills prior to ending its term in early January, there are a series of major legislative issues related to government funding and defense that have yet to be addressed. Jeff John Roberts, Fortune, 24 July 2026 Authorities said Colin Gray knew his son was struggling with his mental health and sought counseling services for him prior to the shooting. N'dea Yancey-Bragg, USA Today, 24 July 2026 Carmack’s wife and two children all attended Queens, and his family currently stewards a scholarship his wife’s parents set up at the school prior to their deaths. Rebecca Noel, Charlotte Observer, 23 July 2026 But prior to the implementation of the new law, defendants accused of such offenses were often granted release through a proportional bail amount, or even a personal recognizance bond, which meant no upfront money was required for release. Dan Petrella, Chicago Tribune, 18 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for prior to
Recent Examples of Synonyms for prior to
Preposition
  • Jake Davis received the ball on the right before playing it back inside to Garcia, who slotted his shot home from just inside the edge of the box.
    Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 23 July 2026
  • After the match, David Finlay attacks White before the rest of the Bang Bang Gang runs down to make the save.
    Rob Wolkenbrod, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026
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
Preposition
  • Supply began 2025 near $205 billion, crossed $300 billion on October 3 after 47% year-to-date growth, and peaked this May.
    Zennon Kapron, Forbes.com, 28 July 2026
  • His own organization, My Brother’s Keeper, spent around $27,000 this year alone on Uber vouchers to get participants to their events.
    Rebecca Noel, Charlotte Observer, 28 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Prior to.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/prior%20to. Accessed 29 Jul. 2026.

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