prior
Definitions
Coming before in time or order; earlier; existing or arranged beforehand
先前的，在前的；事先的
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedLatin prior means 'the earlier of two, the one in front' — it is the comparative of the same 'before' family that gave prīmus (first). So prior knowledge is knowledge you had earlier; prior to means 'before.' Where prime is 'first,' prior is 'earlier' — one step before.
Root prim still carries 18 more wordsUsage Guide
- Before a noun (formal): prior experience, prior notice, prior approval — common in official or written English
- prior to (formal): a formal substitute for 'before' — prior to the meeting. In speech, 'before' is more natural
- Note: prior is normally used attributively (before a noun); you don't usually say 'the meeting is prior.'
Example Sentences
- 1.
Applicants must have prior experience in customer service.
- 2.
We had no prior knowledge of the company's plans.
- 3.
Please give us prior notice if you need to cancel.