B1adverb 2K

Previously

🇬🇧 UK /["/ˈpriːviəsli/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ˈpriːviəsli/"]/

Meaning of Previously

at a time before the time that you are talking about

In simple words: Before now; earlier.

Previously in a sentence

• The building had previously been used as a hotel.
• As previously reported, the couple separated in May.
• The book contains a number of photographs not previously published.
• I had visited them three days previously.
• a previously unknown species

How to use Previously

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.

Grammar pattern

standalone adverb

Memory hint

Sounds like 'pre-viously' — think of 'pre' meaning before.

Related words

Collocations with Previously

• previously mentioned
• previously discussed
• previously stated
• previously introduced
• previously reported

Synonyms for Previously

• formerly
• earlier
• before
• past
• already

Opposites of Previously

• subsequently
• afterwards

Common mistakes with Previously

• Using 'previous' instead of 'previously' in a sentence.
• Confusing 'previously' with 'currently' which means now.
• Misplacing 'previously' in a sentence and changing the meaning.

Frequently asked questions about Previously

What does Previously mean?

Before now; earlier.

What is the definition of Previously?

at a time before the time that you are talking about

How do you use Previously in a sentence?

The building had previously been used as a hotel.

Can you give another example of Previously?

As previously reported, the couple separated in May.

What are synonyms for Previously?

Common alternatives include formerly, earlier, before, past, already.

What is the opposite of Previously?

Opposite meanings include subsequently, afterwards.

What words go with Previously?

It commonly pairs with previously mentioned, previously discussed, previously stated, previously introduced, previously reported.

What are common mistakes when using Previously?

Using 'previous' instead of 'previously' in a sentence. Confusing 'previously' with 'currently' which means now. Misplacing 'previously' in a sentence and changing the meaning.

How do you pronounce Previously?

US: /["/ˈpriːviəsli/"]/, UK: /["/ˈpriːviəsli/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Previously?

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.

What CEFR level is Previously?

"Previously" is at B1 level on the CEFR scale.