Before Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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before
[bɪˈfɔːr ]
Definitions
in time or order
existing or occurring before in time or order.
Synonyms
in advance of, preceding, prior to.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| before |
Use in general contexts to indicate that an event or action happened earlier than another.
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| prior to |
Commonly used in formal or legal contexts to mean something happened earlier than a specific event.
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| in advance of |
Typically used in more formal contexts to indicate something happening earlier than a planned time or event.
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| preceding |
Usually used in formal or written contexts to refer to something happening right before another event or in a sequence.
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Examples of usage
- The day before yesterday
- We met just before the show started.
earlier than
earlier than (the time or event specified).
Synonyms
earlier, formerly, previously.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| before |
This word can also be used in a more formal or literary context to mean 'in the presence of' or 'in front of.'
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| previously |
This is used to describe something that occurred earlier in a more distant past and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
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| formerly |
Use this to describe something that was true in the past but is no longer the case. It often has a more formal tone.
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| earlier |
This is used to describe something that happened previously, but within a day or a short timeframe in the past.
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Examples of usage
- He had never experienced such fear before.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Linguistics
- In English, 'before' functions as a preposition, conjunction, and adverb, showing its versatility in language.
- When 'before' is used as a conjunction, it often introduces a time clause, creating complex sentences.
- In poetry, the use of 'before' can create a sense of anticipation or reflection on past events.
Cultural Context
- 'Before' is often used in the context of time management, highlighting the importance of planning ahead.
- Different cultures have varying perceptions of time, leading to unique interpretations of what 'before' means in social contexts.
- In many religious texts, the concept of actions or events occurring 'before' a significant moment is prevalent, underscoring preparation and foresight.
Philosophy
- Philosophers like Aristotle discussed time extensively, often relating ideas of 'before' and 'after' to the concept of causality.
- In existential philosophy, 'before' can represent past actions that shape future identities and decisions.
- The concept of 'before' sparks discussions regarding time perception, memory, and human consciousness.
Everyday Usage
- 'Before' is commonly used in both verbal and written communication, emphasizing the need to establish timelines.
- It plays a crucial role in storytelling, allowing narrators to weave past events into current narratives.
- In technology, 'before' can refer to the sequence of actions taken within software or coding.
Origin of 'before'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Old English 'beforan', meaning 'in front of' or 'previous to'.
- It’s built from 'be-' (a prefix indicating position) and 'foran' (meaning 'in front of').
- Related words in other Germanic languages, like the German 'vor', also mean 'before'.
The word 'before' originated from the Old English word 'biforan', which is a combination of 'bi' (by) and 'foran' (in front). The usage of 'before' dates back to the 9th century. Over the centuries, 'before' has evolved to represent the concept of something existing or occurring earlier in time or order.
See also: forecastle, forefather, foreman, foremost, forepart, forest, forever.