Synonyms for

Previously

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

Definition

Previously means before now or in the past.

Synonyms & similar words

antecedently before already formerly heretofore prior then theretofore hitherto antecedently erstwhile once preliminary precedently

Synonyms by register

Formal

heretofore formerly antecedently prior

Informal

before earlier in the past ago

Literary

erewhile aforetime

Antonyms

later subsequently following afterward henceforth from now on

Common collocations

  • previously mentioned
  • previously unknown
  • previously thought
  • previously held
  • previously discussed
  • previously established
  • previously seen

Word family

adjective previous
adverb previously

Usage note

Previously is an adverb indicating something that happened before the present time or a specific point in the past. It is generally neutral in register.

Example sentences

  1. I have previously visited that museum.
  2. She was previously married to a famous actor.
  3. The restaurant was previously a bank.
  4. I previously told you not to touch that.
  5. He had previously worked as a teacher.

Quotes

  • Previously, on Lost...
  • I've never been a millionaire but I just know I'd be darling at it. Indeed, I can picture myself interviewing my money. 'How did you happen to come into my pocket, little money?' 'Oh, I've been around and about, hither and yon, and so on and so forth.' 'I see, and what brings you to me?' 'Well, I like you, here I am.' 'Splendid, splendid. And where have you been previously to being in my pocket?' 'Oh, here and there, hither and yon, and so on and so forth.'
  • I previously thought that if I was successful, I'd be able to change things for all of us.

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