Pronunciation

/preˈviəri/

Definitions

• Adverb: In a previous manner or time; previously. For example: “She had previously worked at that company.”
• Adjective: Occurring or done before; prior. For example: “The event was previously scheduled for next week.”
• Particle: Used to indicate a point in time before another action, often in clauses. For example: “I will tell you previously what happened.”

Phrases

• “Previously mentioned” refers to something that has been talked about earlier.
• “Previously unseen” indicates something that hasn’t been encountered before.
• “Previously owned” describes something that has been owned by someone else.

Example Sentences

• Adverb: “Previously, they had discussed the topic at length.”
• Adjective: “The report details previously unknown facts.”
• Particle: “She explained previously how she fixed the issue.”

Synonyms

• Earlier
• Formerly
• Prior to
• Previously stated
• Antecedently

Note

• The adverb form can also be written as “previously” without the hyphen, while the adverbial particle is usually hyphenated. However, both usages are commonly accepted.