B1adverb2K

Previously

UK /["/ˈpriːviəsli/"]/US /["/ˈpriːviəsli/"]/

Definition

at a time before the time that you are talking about

In simple words: Before now; earlier.

Examples

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

Usage notes

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.

Collocations

previously mentioned
previously discussed
previously stated
previously introduced
previously reported

Synonyms

formerly
earlier
before
past
already

Antonyms

subsequently
afterwards

Common mistakes

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