Synonyms for

Previous

Verb / ˈpri:vi:ʌs / Another word for previous — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Existing or occurring before in time or order; prior or earlier.

Synonyms & similar words

late old premature former earlier prior preceding former past antecedent foregoing preliminary preexistent proceeding preexisting earliest erstwhile last late old once quondam sometime whilom

Synonyms by register

Formal

prior antecedent preceding former

Informal

last past earlier

Literary

erstwhile foregoing

Antonyms

next following subsequent future later coming succeeding

Common collocations

  • previous experience
  • previous owner
  • previous record
  • previous engagement
  • previous day
  • previous meeting
  • previous issue
  • previous attempt

Word family

noun prevalence
adjective previous
adverb previously

Usage note

Often used to refer to something that happened or existed before the current time or situation. Be careful not to confuse with 'precious'.

Example sentences

  1. I forgot my previous password for the computer.
  2. The previous owner of the house left some furniture behind.
  3. The teacher reviewed the previous lesson before starting the new one.
  4. In the previous election, the candidate won by a landslide.
  5. I need to finish the previous task before starting a new one.

Quotes

  • The past is always tense, the future perfect.
  • The present is never our goal: the past and present are our means: the future alone is our goal.
  • The best way to predict the future is to study the past, or prognosticate.

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