Previous

Definition

The term "previous" describes something that happened or existed before a certain point in time.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Adverb (rare, archaic)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈpriː.vi.əs/
• Respelling: PREE-vee-uhs

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈpriː.vi.əs/
• Respelling: PREE-vee-uhs

Etymology

The word "previous" originates from the Latin "praevius," meaning "leading the way," derived from "prae" (before) and "via" (way). It entered Middle English through Old French.

Derivatives

• Previously (adverb)
• Precedence (noun)
• Precedent (noun)
• Preceding (adjective)
• Preview (noun, verb)

Synonyms

• Prior
• Earlier
• Former

Antonyms

• Subsequent
• Later
• Following

Usage

The term "previous" is commonly used to refer to events, states, or conditions that occurred earlier. For example, "The previous meeting discussed this issue" or "She referred to her previous experience in the role."

Related Terms

• Prior: Happening or existing before something else.
• Precedent: An earlier event used as an example or standard.
• Preceding: Existing or happening before in time or order.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Occurring or existing before in time: Refers to events or states that happened earlier.
  • Example: "The previous owner of the house left detailed instructions."
• Earlier in sequence or order: Refers to something preceding another in a series.
  • Example: "Refer to the previous chapter for background information."

Adverb (rare, archaic)

• Beforehand or earlier: Refers to actions occurring earlier in time.
  • Example: "He had previous agreed to the terms."