before (A1)

preposition, adverb, conjunction

Pronunciation: /bɪˈfɔːr/

Definition

Earlier in time than a specific moment or event.

Examples

• I saw him before the party.

• She finished her work before lunch.

• We need to leave before it gets dark.

How to Use before

before long (idiom)

Soon. — "Before long, the rain stopped."

before then (collocation)

Before a specific time already mentioned. — "We need to finish the report by Friday. We will discuss it before then."

before now (collocation)

At any time in the past. — "Have you seen this movie before now?"

Synonyms of before

Words with a similar meaning to before:

• earlier
• previously
• prior to

Antonyms of before

Words with the opposite meaning to before:

• after
• since
• later

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