before

[bih-fawr, -fohr] / bɪˈfɔr, -ˈfoʊr /

ADVERB

earlier

Synonyms

STRONGEST

ahead back previously since sooner

WEAK

afore aforetime ante antecedently anteriorly before present ere fore former formerly forward heretofore in advance in days of yore in front in the old days in the past past precendently previous up to now

Antonyms

WEAK

after afterward behind later

PREPOSITION

earlier than

Synonyms

STRONGEST

since

WEAK

ahead of ante antecedent to anterior to ere in advance of in front of preceding previous to prior to

Antonyms

WEAK

after afterward behind later

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Reid, an ice hockey enthusiast, started writing fan fiction in the sport romance genre before her stories became bestsellers.

From BBC

Observers agree that if or when tensions calm down, they will likely settle at a higher level than before.

From BBC

"But before this technique, it wasn't available for children."

From BBC

"What is not on the table: submission before threats," Araqchi said.

From BBC

He was there the day before Lewis died, she said, praying.

From Los Angeles Times