Before vs Previously

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

	Before	Previously
Meaning	At an earlier time than something else.	Before now; earlier.
CEFR level	A1	B1
Part of speech	preposition	adverb
Usage notes	Used to indicate a time prior to an event or action. Common in both spoken and written language. Avoid using it in extremely formal writing; in that context, consider 'prior to'.	Use 'previously' to connect past events with the present. It's suitable for both spoken and written contexts but may sound too formal in casual conversations.

Frequently asked questions: Before vs Previously

What's the difference between "Before" and "Previously"?

"Before" means: At an earlier time than something else. "Previously" means: Before now; earlier.

When should I use "Before" and "Previously"?

They can all be used in everyday English.

Are "Before" and "Previously" the same CEFR level?

"Before" is at A1, "Previously" is at B1 on the CEFR scale.