prior — existing or coming before in time, order, or importance
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: existing or coming before in time, order, or importance
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈpraɪər/
Example Sentences
- Prior to becoming a teacher, she worked as a chef - which explains why her chemistry experiments always smell delicious.
- You need prior permission to access this confidential file.
- His prior attempt at cooking resulted in the fire department visiting for dinner.
prior
ADJECTIVE[/ˈpraɪər/]
existing or coming before in time, order, or importance
Prior experience helped her stay calm during the emergency.
Prior warnings could have prevented the accident entirely. (PRE + before → prior means something existing BEFORE the current moment or event)
Prior preparation reduced what the team needed to require and inspired greater confidence during the mission.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'prior' meaning 'former, first, superior,' which is the comparative form of 'primus' (first). The word entered English through Old French and has been used since Middle English to denote precedence in time or importance.
Breakdown
Latin 'prior' (former, first) - no further morphological breakdown as it is a root word that functions as an adjective or noun in English
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“Prior to becoming a teacher, she worked as a chef - which explains why her chemistry experiments always smell delicious.”
“You need prior permission to access this confidential file.”
“His prior attempt at cooking resulted in the fire department visiting for dinner.”
“Please complete the prior assignments before moving to the next chapter.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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