Previous: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'previous' when referring to something that happened or existed before the current event or time. It is commonly used in everyday conversation and writing.

• She mentioned her previous job during the interview
• We need to review the previous chapter before moving forward

Use 'prior' when referring to something that happened before something else, often used in more formal or legal contexts.

• The contract requires prior approval
• He was unaware of the conditions prior to signing the agreement

Use 'former' to describe something that existed in the past but not anymore. It is often used when comparing two periods or identities.

• The former president will be giving a speech tonight
• She is a former tennis champion

Use 'earlier' to indicate something that occurred before a certain point in time, usually within the same day or event. It works well when discussing a sequence of events.

• I had breakfast earlier, so I'm not hungry now
• We discussed the plan earlier in the meeting

Use this word for referring to something that came before another thing in time or order.

• His previous job was more demanding
• The previous chapter of the book was quite intriguing

Use this word to refer to a person who held a position or role before the current holder. It is commonly used in professional settings.

• Her predecessor was well-respected by the team
• The new CEO's strategies differed significantly from those of his predecessor

This term typically refers to someone or something that comes before and indicates the approach of another. Often used in historical or technological contexts.

• The telegraph was a forerunner to modern communication systems
• The pony express was a forerunner of the current postal service

This is often used in formal or academic contexts to refer to something that logically precedes another thing.

• The antecedent events led to the revolution
• Linguists study the antecedents to understand language development