C1 Expression Formal 6 min read

As previously mentioned

Academic discourse marker used to connect ideas

In 15 Seconds

  • Formal way to reference earlier points.
  • Used mainly in professional writing/emails.
  • Helps organize long thoughts or documents.
  • Can sound stiff in casual speech.

Meaning

Think of this as the professional version of 'Like I said.' It is a polite way to reference something you have already mentioned in a conversation or document. It creates a smooth link between your current thought and a previous point without sounding like you are repeating yourself.

Key Examples

3 of 10
1

Professional email follow-up

As previously mentioned, the deadline for the project is this Friday.

As previously mentioned, the deadline for the project is this Friday.

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2

University lecture summary

As previously mentioned, the exam will cover chapters one through five.

As previously mentioned, the exam will cover chapters one through five.

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3

Slack message to a colleague

The password, as previously mentioned, is located in the shared folder.

The password, as previously mentioned, is located in the shared folder.

<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>
🌍

Cultural Background

In US corporate culture, this phrase is often used to ensure 'alignment.' It's a way of saying 'We are all following the same script.' It is highly valued in project management. Be careful! In the UK, if a boss uses this phrase in an email, it might be a sign they are annoyed that you forgot something. It's a 'polite' way of showing frustration. When translating this to Japanese contexts, it's often accompanied by an apology for repeating oneself, as repetition can be seen as slightly impolite. Germans value directness and 'Protokoll' (minutes/records). Using this phrase shows you are disciplined and following the established record of the conversation.

🎯

The 'Gentle Nudge'

Use this phrase when you want to remind someone of a rule they are breaking without being the 'bad guy.' It makes the rule the authority, not you.

⚠️

Don't Overdo It

If you use this more than twice in one email, you will sound like a robot. Use 'As I noted' or 'As we discussed' for variety.

In 15 Seconds

  • Formal way to reference earlier points.
  • Used mainly in professional writing/emails.
  • Helps organize long thoughts or documents.
  • Can sound stiff in casual speech.

What It Means

Ever felt like someone wasn't listening to a word you said? We have all been there. In a professional setting, you cannot just yell, "Pay attention!" You need something smoother. That is where as previously mentioned comes in. It is a linguistic anchor. It hooks your new idea to an old one. It makes you sound organized. It makes your writing look structured. It also subtly reminds the reader that you have already provided this information. It is like leaving breadcrumbs in a long email chain.

What It Means

At its core, as previously mentioned is a discourse marker. It signals a connection. It tells the reader, "Hey, remember that thing from three paragraphs ago?" It is not just about memory. It is about authority. Using this phrase shows you have a plan. You are not just rambling. You are building an argument. It carries a vibe of competence. However, use it carefully. If you say it too much, you sound like a robot. If you use it once, you sound like a pro. It is the salt of professional English. A little bit adds flavor. Too much ruins the dish.

How To Use It

You will mostly see this at the start of a sentence. It is usually followed by a comma. For example: As previously mentioned, the meeting is at 5 PM. You can also tuck it into the middle of a sentence. The report, as previously mentioned, is due on Friday. This adds a nice rhythm to your prose. It works best in writing. When you speak, it can sound a bit stiff. In a Zoom meeting, you might prefer As I said earlier. But in a formal report? This phrase is king. It bridges the gap between different sections of your work. It keeps the reader on track.

Formality & Register

This phrase lives in the land of suits and ties. It is definitely on the formal side. You will find it in academic papers and legal contracts. It is very common in corporate emails. It is the opposite of slang. You would never use this while gaming with friends. Imagine saying, As previously mentioned, I need more health points. Your friends would probably laugh at you. Keep it for your boss or your professors. It is perfect for LinkedIn posts or cover letters. It shows you know how to navigate professional spaces. It is a sign of respect for the reader's time.

Real-Life Examples

Imagine you are writing a long email to a client. You mentioned the price in the first paragraph. Now, in the final paragraph, you want to remind them. You write, As previously mentioned, the total cost includes shipping. This is much better than just repeating the price. It feels less aggressive. Another example is a University lecture. A professor might say, As previously mentioned in the syllabus, there are no late submissions. Here, it acts as a polite warning. It is also great for Instagram captions. Maybe you are doing a "Part 2" post. As previously mentioned, my travel vlog is now live! It connects your content across different platforms.

When To Use It

Use it when you are summarizing a long discussion. It is perfect for the "Conclusion" section of a paper. Use it when you need to be very clear about rules or deadlines. It is great for responding to a thread on Slack or Microsoft Teams. If someone asks a question you already answered, this is your best friend. It points them back to the original answer without being rude. Use it when you want to sound like an expert. It gives your words a certain weight. It says, "I am consistent and I remember what I say."

When NOT To Use It

Never use this if you haven't actually mentioned the thing before. That is a quick way to confuse people. They will spend ten minutes looking for the non-existent previous mention. Don't use it in very casual texts. As previously mentioned, I'll be there in 5 mins sounds like you are mad at your friend. Avoid it in high-stress emotional situations. If your partner is upset, don't say, As previously mentioned, I am sorry. That will not go well. Trust me on this one. Also, don't use it more than twice in a single email. It becomes repetitive and annoying.

Common Mistakes

One big mistake is mixing it up with As mentioned previously. While both are correct, as previously mentioned is the standard formal version. Another mistake is forgetting the comma. It needs that little pause to breathe. Some people say ✗ Like previously mentioned. This is too informal for the word previously. Another error is using it as a filler word. If it doesn't serve a purpose, cut it out. ✗ As previously mentioned, hello. This makes no sense. Only use it when there is a real connection to make. Your goal is clarity, not just sounding fancy.

Common Variations

If as previously mentioned feels too heavy, try some alternatives. As noted earlier is a bit lighter. As I said before is great for speaking. As discussed is perfect for follow-up emails. If you are writing a very formal paper, you might use As stated above. In the UK, you might hear As already noted. On social media, people often just say Like I said.... Each one has a slightly different vibe. Pick the one that fits your current environment. The goal is to be understood, not just to use the biggest words possible.

Real Conversations

M

Manager

Did you finish the budget report yet?
E

Employee

As previously mentioned, I will have it to you by tomorrow morning.
S

Student

Do we need to bring our own laptops for the exam?
P

Professor

As previously mentioned in the announcement, all equipment will be provided.
C

Customer

I'm not sure if I want the insurance.

Sales Agent: As previously mentioned, it covers all accidental damage for two years.

Quick FAQ

Is this phrase passive-aggressive? It can be. If you use it to point out someone's mistake, it might feel a bit sharp. Use it gently. Is it better than As I said? In writing, yes. It feels more polished and professional. Can I use it in a text message? Only if you are being funny or working on a mobile app like Slack. Otherwise, it is too stiff. Does it have to be at the start? No, but it is the most common spot. Try putting it after the subject for a more sophisticated sound.

You have got this! Using as previously mentioned will make your professional English shine. It shows you are a thoughtful communicator. Just remember to use it sparingly. Keep your tone helpful and your connections clear. Your colleagues will appreciate the organization. Now, go write that perfect email!

Usage Notes

This phrase is high-formality. It's great for emails and essays but too stiff for casual texts. Always follow with a comma and ensure you actually mentioned the topic earlier!

🎯

The 'Gentle Nudge'

Use this phrase when you want to remind someone of a rule they are breaking without being the 'bad guy.' It makes the rule the authority, not you.

⚠️

Don't Overdo It

If you use this more than twice in one email, you will sound like a robot. Use 'As I noted' or 'As we discussed' for variety.

💬

The British Subtext

In the UK, this phrase can be 'fighting words' in an email. If you receive an email starting with this, double-check if you missed something important!

Examples

10
#1 Professional email follow-up
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As previously mentioned, the deadline for the project is this Friday.

As previously mentioned, the deadline for the project is this Friday.

Politely reminds the recipient of a date already discussed.

#2 University lecture summary
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

As previously mentioned, the exam will cover chapters one through five.

As previously mentioned, the exam will cover chapters one through five.

Refers back to a syllabus or earlier announcement.

#3 Slack message to a colleague
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M14.828 14.828a4 4 0 01-5.656 0M9 10h.01M15 10h.01M21 12a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z"/></svg>

The password, as previously mentioned, is located in the shared folder.

The password, as previously mentioned, is located in the shared folder.

A mid-sentence insertion that sounds very organized.

#4 Instagram caption for a series
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As previously mentioned in my last post, I'm moving to Tokyo!

As previously mentioned in my last post, I'm moving to Tokyo!

Links current social media content to previous updates.

#5 Job interview explanation
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

As previously mentioned, I have three years of experience in marketing.

As previously mentioned, I have three years of experience in marketing.

Reinforces a key point from the candidate's resume.

#6 A slightly funny correction
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As previously mentioned to the cat, dinner is not until six.

As previously mentioned to the cat, dinner is not until six.

Using a formal phrase in a silly context for humor.

#7 Business contract detail
<svg class="w-5 h-5" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" viewBox="0 0 24 24" aria-hidden="true"><path stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" stroke-width="2" d="M21 13.255A23.931 23.931 0 0112 15c-3.183 0-6.22-.62-9-1.745M16 6V4a2 2 0 00-2-2h-4a2 2 0 00-2 2v2m4 6h.01M5 20h14a2 2 0 002-2V8a2 2 0 00-2-2H5a2 2 0 00-2 2v10a2 2 0 002 2z"/></svg>

The service fee, as previously mentioned, is non-refundable.

The service fee, as previously mentioned, is non-refundable.

Common in legal or financial documents for clarity.

Common mistake: No context Common Mistake
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✗ As previously mentioned, I like pizza. → ✓ I like pizza (unless you already said it).

✗ As previously mentioned, I like pizza. → ✓ I like pizza.

Don't use it if you haven't actually mentioned it before.

Common mistake: Informal mix Common Mistake
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✗ Like previously mentioned, the party is at 8. → ✓ As previously mentioned, the party is at 8.

✗ Like previously mentioned, the party is at 8. → ✓ As previously mentioned, the party is at 8.

'Like' is too casual to pair with the formal word 'previously'.

#10 Emotional reassurance
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As previously mentioned, I am here for you if you need anything.

As previously mentioned, I am here for you if you need anything.

Shows consistency in emotional support.

Test Yourself

Complete the sentence with the correct form of the phrase.

________ previously ________, all employees must sign the new policy by Friday.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: As / mentioned

'As' is the correct conjunction, and 'mentioned' must be in the past participle form.

Which sentence is the most appropriate for a formal business email?

You want to remind a client about a price you discussed yesterday.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: As previously mentioned, the price is $100.

This option is the most professional and avoids sounding aggressive or informal.

Choose the best response for Speaker B.

Speaker A: 'I forgot, when is the project due?' Speaker B: '________, the deadline is next Tuesday.'

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: As previously mentioned

'As previously mentioned' is the standard way to answer a question that has already been addressed.

Match the phrase to the correct context.

Where would you most likely see 'As previously mentioned'?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: A formal legal contract

The phrase is highly formal and suited for legal or professional documents.

🎉 Score: /4

Visual Learning Aids

Practice Bank

4 exercises
Complete the sentence with the correct form of the phrase. Fill Blank B2

________ previously ________, all employees must sign the new policy by Friday.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: As / mentioned

'As' is the correct conjunction, and 'mentioned' must be in the past participle form.

Which sentence is the most appropriate for a formal business email? Choose C1

You want to remind a client about a price you discussed yesterday.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: As previously mentioned, the price is $100.

This option is the most professional and avoids sounding aggressive or informal.

Choose the best response for Speaker B. dialogue_completion B1

Speaker A: 'I forgot, when is the project due?' Speaker B: '________, the deadline is next Tuesday.'

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: As previously mentioned

'As previously mentioned' is the standard way to answer a question that has already been addressed.

Match the phrase to the correct context. situation_matching A2

Where would you most likely see 'As previously mentioned'?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: A formal legal contract

The phrase is highly formal and suited for legal or professional documents.

🎉 Score: /4

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, usually. On Slack, 'Like I said' or 'As mentioned earlier' is much more natural.

Yes, but it's less common. For example: 'We need to finish this by noon, as previously mentioned.'

'As mentioned above' is only for writing. 'As previously mentioned' can be used for both speaking and writing.

It depends on the tone. In a neutral voice, it's professional. In a sharp voice, it can sound like 'Why didn't you listen the first time?'

No, it must be 'mentioned' (past participle) because it's a passive structure.

Absolutely. It is a standard way to link different parts of your argument.

Try using 'As we discussed' or 'As you might remember' to add a more human touch.

No, that's too soon. Use it for things mentioned at least a few minutes ago or in a previous message.

Yes, simply 'As mentioned' is very common and slightly less formal.

Using it when you haven't actually mentioned the topic before. It makes people stop and think 'Wait, did I miss something?'

Related Phrases

🔗

As mentioned earlier

similar

A slightly less formal version of the phrase.

🔗

As noted above

specialized form

Used specifically in written documents.

🔄

Like I said

synonym

The informal version of the phrase.

🔗

Per our conversation

builds on

Used to reference a specific past talk.

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