Synonyms for

Preceding

Adjective / pri:ˈsi:dɪŋ / Another word for preceding — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Coming before in time or order; previous.

Synonyms & similar words

lead premise precede predate preface antecede forgo past forego postdate succeed retiring follow introduce antedate succeeding former previous prior earlier antecedent past foregoing preliminary preparatory introductory preexistent antecedent precursory preliminary preparatory prior former earlier antecedent aforementioned aforesaid

Synonyms by register

Formal

antecedent prior previous foregoing

Informal

before earlier past

Literary

erstwhile former

Antonyms

following succeeding subsequent later coming next

Common collocations

  • preceding events
  • preceding chapter
  • preceding day
  • preceding paragraph
  • preceding argument
  • preceding sentence
  • preceding years

Word family

noun precedence
adjective preceding
adverb precedingly

Usage note

Often used to refer to something that comes immediately before in time or order. Be mindful of its formal tone; 'before' or 'earlier' might be more appropriate in casual conversation.

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Example sentences

  1. The preceding sentence explained what the word preceding means.
  2. I studied the preceding chapter in my textbook.
  3. The preceding year was full of challenges.
  4. The preceding paragraph introduced the topic of the essay.
  5. The preceding speaker talked about climate change.

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