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previously

B2 adverb #1,000 most common 13 min read

previously

Top 1,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips previously in 30 Seconds

Explanation previously in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'previously' is a very difficult word because it is long and formal. Instead of 'previously,' A1 students usually use the word 'before.' For example, instead of saying 'I previously lived in London,' an A1 student would say 'Before, I lived in London.' The word 'previously' is an adverb that tells us about time. It means 'at an earlier time.' Imagine a timeline. You are at the 'Now' point. 'Previously' points to any time to the left of 'Now.' It is important to know that 'previously' is usually used in books or on the news. In simple conversation, you don't need it. However, you might see it on TV. Have you ever watched a show that starts with 'Previously on...'? That means 'Before, in this show, these things happened.' This is the most common way for a beginner to hear the word. At this level, just remember that if you see 'previously,' it means 'in the past' or 'before now.' You don't need to use it in your own speaking yet. Focus on 'before' and 'yesterday' first. Those are much more common for beginners. When you read 'previously,' try to replace it with 'before' in your head to understand the sentence. It is a 'time word.' It helps us understand the order of events. First, something happened 'previously.' Then, something is happening 'now.' That is the simplest way to think about it. Don't worry about the grammar too much yet. Just recognize that it is a formal way to say 'before.'

At the A2 level, you are starting to learn more adverbs of time. 'Previously' is a formal adverb that means 'at a time before the one you are talking about.' You might start to see this word in short stories or news articles for learners. It is a step up from 'before' or 'earlier.' While an A2 student can survive using 'before,' learning 'previously' helps you understand more formal English. For example, if you are reading a biography, it might say, 'He previously worked as a waiter.' This means that before his current job, or before the time the book is talking about, he was a waiter. A key thing to remember at A2 is that 'previously' is an adverb. This means you cannot use it like 'before' with a noun. You can say 'before the movie,' but you cannot say 'previously the movie.' This is a common mistake. 'Previously' usually stands alone or comes before a verb. You will often see it at the start of a sentence followed by a comma: 'Previously, the weather was very cold.' This is a good way for A2 students to start using the word. It helps you organize your sentences when you are writing a simple paragraph about your life or a story. You can also use it to talk about things you have already mentioned. If you are writing an email, you could say, 'As previously mentioned, I will be late.' This sounds very professional! At this level, try to recognize 'previously' in reading and maybe try using it once or twice in your writing to sound more advanced.

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable recognizing 'previously' and understanding its role in a sentence. You are moving beyond simple 'before' and 'after' and starting to use more precise language to describe sequences of events. 'Previously' is a great word to use when you want to sound more professional or academic. It is very common in the workplace. For example, in a meeting, you might say, 'We previously tried this method, but it didn't work.' This sounds much more confident than 'We tried this before.' At B1, you should also notice how 'previously' is used with different tenses. It is often used with the Past Simple ('I previously worked there') or the Past Perfect ('I had previously seen the film'). The Past Perfect is especially useful because it helps you talk about an event that happened before another event in the past. This 'double past' is a key B1 grammar point, and 'previously' is a perfect partner for it. You should also start to notice common pairs, called collocations. 'Previously unknown,' 'previously mentioned,' and 'previously stated' are very common. If you are writing an essay for an exam like the B1 Preliminary (PET), using 'previously' instead of 'before' can help you get a higher score for vocabulary. It shows that you can use formal language correctly. Remember that 'previously' is an adverb, so its position in the sentence matters. It often goes in the 'middle' of the sentence, between the subject and the verb, or after the first auxiliary verb (like 'have' or 'was'). Practice putting it in different places to see how it changes the feel of the sentence.

At the B2 level, 'previously' is a word you are expected to use accurately and naturally. This is the level where the word is officially categorized. You should understand that 'previously' is not just a synonym for 'before,' but a tool for creating sophisticated narrative structures. It allows you to move back and forth in time within a text without losing your reader. At B2, you should be able to use 'previously' to contrast past and present situations effectively. For example: 'The area, previously a neglected industrial zone, has been transformed into a vibrant cultural hub.' This sentence uses 'previously' to provide essential background information in a concise, parenthetical way. You should also be aware of the subtle differences between 'previously' and 'formerly.' While they are often interchangeable, 'formerly' is more about a change in status or name, while 'previously' is more about the timing of an event. As a B2 learner, you should also be comfortable using 'previously' to modify adjectives, such as 'a previously unreleased track' or 'a previously undiscovered species.' This shows a high level of control over word order and modification. In terms of speaking, you should be able to use 'previously' in formal presentations or discussions to refer back to points you or others have made. 'As John previously pointed out...' or 'I previously mentioned the budget constraints...' These phrases help create cohesion in your speech. You should also be careful not to over-use the word in informal settings, as it can sound slightly 'stilted' or unnatural. A B2 speaker knows when to use the formal 'previously' and when to stick with the simpler 'before' or 'earlier.' Mastery of this word at B2 means using it to enhance the clarity and professionalism of your communication.

At the C1 level, your use of 'previously' should be seamless and highly nuanced. You are no longer just using it to mean 'before'; you are using it to manage complex discourse and establish precise temporal relationships. In C1 level writing, such as academic papers or complex reports, 'previously' is essential for referencing the 'literature' or the history of a debate. You might use it to qualify a statement: 'While it was previously assumed that the two variables were linked, recent data suggests otherwise.' Here, 'previously' is doing heavy lifting—it's setting up a contrast between an old consensus and a new discovery. You should also be familiar with more advanced syntactic structures involving 'previously.' For example, using it in a reduced relative clause: 'The data previously collected by the team was found to be flawed.' This is a very efficient way to pack information into a sentence, which is a hallmark of C1 proficiency. You should also be able to distinguish 'previously' from even more formal alternatives like 'hitherto' or 'heretofore,' knowing that 'previously' is the standard professional choice while the others are largely restricted to legal or archaic contexts. At C1, you should also notice the rhythmic quality 'previously' adds to a sentence. Because it is a four-syllable word with the stress on the first syllable (PRE-vi-ous-ly), it can be used to balance a sentence or add emphasis. You might use it at the end of a clause for rhetorical effect: 'The symptoms were unlike anything the doctors had encountered previously.' This puts the focus on the novelty of the situation. Overall, at C1, 'previously' is a versatile instrument in your linguistic toolkit, used for precision, cohesion, and stylistic variety in both written and spoken English.

At the C2 level, 'previously' is used with total mastery, often in ways that are subtle yet powerful. You understand that 'previously' is a key component of 'cohesion'—the way a text hangs together. In a C2 level essay or speech, 'previously' can be used to weave together disparate threads of an argument. You might use it to refer back to a concept introduced much earlier in a long text, helping the reader maintain the 'thread' of your logic. 'This brings us back to the ethical dilemma previously discussed in the introduction.' You are also aware of the word's potential for irony or rhetorical weight. For instance, in a political critique, one might say, 'The minister, previously the loudest advocate for transparency, has now refused to release the documents.' Here, 'previously' highlights hypocrisy with surgical precision. At this level, you also understand the subtle prosody of the word—how its sound and rhythm contribute to the overall tone of a passage. You might choose 'previously' over 'before' not just for formality, but for the way its multi-syllabic structure slows down the pace of a sentence, giving the reader more time to process the historical context. You are also fully comfortable with its use in highly technical or legalistic strings of modifiers: 'the previously-stipulated-but-often-ignored safety protocols.' While this is a complex construction, a C2 learner can navigate it without error. Essentially, at C2, 'previously' is no longer a 'vocabulary word' to be learned; it is a fundamental building block of your advanced communicative competence, used instinctively to create texts that are clear, authoritative, and stylistically sophisticated. You use it to command time and logic within your discourse, ensuring that your audience follows every nuance of your message.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

previously in 30 Seconds

Previously is a formal adverb meaning 'at an earlier time' or 'before now.'
It is commonly used in writing, news, and professional contexts to provide background.
It can appear at the start, middle, or end of a sentence to show sequence.
It is often used with the Past Simple or Past Perfect tenses to clarify timing.

The adverb previously is a sophisticated temporal marker used to denote that an event, state, or action occurred at a point in time preceding the current moment or the specific timeframe under discussion. In the hierarchy of English temporal adverbs, it sits comfortably in the B2 CEFR level because while its core meaning is simple—'before'—its application requires an understanding of narrative flow and formal register. When you use this word, you are essentially creating a mental bridge between the 'now' of your sentence and a 'then' that has already concluded. It is the linguistic equivalent of a flashback in a film, providing necessary background information that contextualizes the present situation. Unlike the word 'before,' which can function as a preposition, conjunction, or adverb, 'previously' is strictly an adverb, which gives it a specific syntactic utility in professional and academic writing.

Temporal Reference: It identifies a specific period that has ended before the current discourse began. It is often used to contrast a past state with a current one, highlighting changes or developments over time.

In everyday communication, you might hear this word most frequently in the context of media consumption. The iconic phrase 'Previously on...' serves as a recap for television series, reminding the audience of critical plot points from earlier episodes. This usage perfectly encapsulates the word's function: it retrieves information from the past to make the present more intelligible. Beyond entertainment, it is a staple of journalism and legal proceedings. A reporter might state that a suspect was 'previously' arrested, or a lawyer might refer to a 'previously' signed contract. In these contexts, the word carries a weight of factual history, suggesting a definitive record of events. It avoids the vagueness that sometimes accompanies 'before' or 'once,' pointing instead to a documented or established prior state.

The research team discovered that the site had previously been used as a marketplace during the Roman era.

Furthermore, 'previously' is essential for establishing a sequence of events in complex narratives. When writing a report or a history, you cannot always present events in a perfectly linear fashion. Sometimes, you must introduce a fact that happened earlier to explain why a current event is significant. This is where 'previously' shines. It allows the writer to jump back in time without confusing the reader. It signals a shift in the timeline, ensuring that the reader understands the chronological order even if the sentences are not arranged chronologically. This level of control over time is a hallmark of advanced English proficiency.

Contextual Usage: Commonly paired with past participles (e.g., previously mentioned, previously unknown) to modify nouns and provide historical context within a single phrase.

In summary, 'previously' is more than just a synonym for 'before.' It is a tool for precision, a marker of formal register, and a vital component of narrative structure. Whether you are summarizing a TV show, writing a scientific paper, or describing your work history on a resume, 'previously' helps you organize time in a way that is clear, professional, and authoritative. It tells your audience that you are not just talking about the past, but specifically about the past as it relates to the present moment.

Mastering the placement of previously is key to achieving natural-sounding English. As an adverb, it is remarkably flexible, but there are three primary positions where it most commonly appears: at the beginning of a sentence, in the mid-position (between the subject and the main verb), and at the end of a clause. Each position carries a slightly different emphasis and is suited to different communicative goals.

Initial Position: When placed at the start of a sentence, 'previously' acts as a transition word. It sets the stage for the entire sentence, alerting the reader that the information following it belongs to an earlier timeframe. For example: 'Previously, the company focused solely on domestic sales.' Here, the word creates a clear contrast with whatever current strategy is being discussed in the surrounding text.

The mid-position is perhaps the most common in formal writing. It usually appears after the first auxiliary verb or before the main verb if there is no auxiliary. This placement feels integrated and smooth. Consider the sentence: 'The symptoms had not been previously observed in this age group.' By placing 'previously' before 'observed,' the writer emphasizes the novelty of the current situation. This is a standard pattern in academic and medical writing, where the history of a phenomenon is just as important as its current state.

She had previously worked as a diplomat before joining the non-profit sector.

End-position usage is less common but effective for adding a concluding thought about the past. 'We are using a method that was successful previously.' In this case, the emphasis is on the success of the method, with its past timing added as a supporting detail. However, writers should be careful not to overuse this position, as it can sometimes make the sentence feel 'tail-heavy' or slightly clunky compared to the mid-position.

Another crucial aspect of using 'previously' is its relationship with verb tenses. Because it refers to a time before the present or before another past event, it is frequently paired with the Past Simple or the Past Perfect tense. 'I previously lived in London' (Past Simple) indicates a finished state in the past. 'I had previously lived in London' (Past Perfect) is used when you are already talking about another past event—for example, 'Before I moved to Paris in 2010, I had previously lived in London.' This nuance is what makes 'previously' a B2 level word; it requires the speaker to manage multiple layers of time simultaneously.

Comparison with 'Before': While 'before' can often replace 'previously,' 'previously' is preferred when the time reference is absolute rather than relative to a specific object. You say 'before the meeting' (preposition), but you say 'I had seen him previously' (adverb).

Finally, consider the use of 'previously' in passive constructions. It is very common to see it used as 'previously [past participle].' Phrases like 'previously mentioned,' 'previously recorded,' and 'previously discussed' are essential for referencing information without repeating it in full. This helps maintain the flow of a document and demonstrates a high level of linguistic cohesion. By mastering these patterns, you can use 'previously' to create complex, clear, and professional sentences that accurately reflect the passage of time.

While previously might seem like a word reserved for textbooks, it is actually ubiquitous in modern English across various media and professional environments. Understanding where you are likely to encounter it will help you recognize its nuances and use it more naturally yourself. From the high-stakes world of news broadcasting to the structured environment of a corporate boardroom, 'previously' is a workhorse of the English language.

One of the most recognizable uses of the word is in the television industry. Almost every serialized drama or reality show begins with a montage of past events accompanied by the voiceover: 'Previously on [Show Name].' This usage is so iconic that it has become a cultural meme. In this context, 'previously' serves as a functional tool for 'recapitulation.' It tells the viewer, 'Here is what you need to remember from the past to understand what is about to happen.' This demonstrates the word's primary function: linking past information to the present moment for the sake of clarity.

' Previously on Lost...' - A classic example of the word used to summarize past narrative events.

In the realm of journalism and news reporting, 'previously' is used to provide essential background context to a breaking story. A news anchor might say, 'The senator, who previously denied any involvement in the scandal, has now issued a formal apology.' Here, 'previously' is used to highlight a change in stance or a contradiction. It allows the reporter to pack a lot of historical information into a single sentence, making the reporting more efficient and authoritative. It is also used in weather reports ('as previously forecast') and financial news ('previously trading at a record high').

In professional and academic settings, 'previously' is the standard way to refer to earlier research or internal company history. In a business meeting, a manager might say, 'As we previously discussed in our Q3 review, we need to reduce overhead.' This usage reinforces shared knowledge and ensures that everyone is on the same page. In academic papers, you will constantly see phrases like 'as previously noted by Smith (2018)' or 'this phenomenon was previously thought to be rare.' In these cases, 'previously' is used to build an argument upon the foundation of existing knowledge.

Professional Environments: In job interviews, candidates use 'previously' to describe their work history: 'I was previously responsible for managing a team of ten.' This sounds more professional than saying 'Before, I managed ten people.'

Finally, you will hear 'previously' in technology and software updates. When an app updates, the 'What's New' section might mention that 'a bug previously affecting login speeds has been fixed.' Here, it identifies a specific past problem that has now been resolved. Across all these domains, the word 'previously' acts as a signpost, pointing the listener or reader back in time to provide the context necessary for understanding the present. Its presence is a sign of organized, clear, and professional communication.

Even for intermediate learners, the word previously can occasionally lead to errors in usage, mostly related to its position in a sentence, its formality, or its confusion with similar-sounding words. Understanding these common pitfalls will help you use the word with the confidence of a native speaker.

Mistake 1: Confusing 'Previously' with 'Before': The most common mistake is using 'previously' as a preposition. You cannot say 'previously the meeting' or 'previously dinner.' 'Previously' is an adverb and must stand alone or modify a verb/adjective. If you need to follow the word with a noun, you must use 'before' or 'prior to.'

Another frequent error involves the redundant use of time markers. Because 'previously' already implies a time in the past, adding other past-time markers can sometimes be unnecessary or even grammatically awkward. For example, saying 'Previously in the past' is redundant because 'previously' already means 'in the past.' It is better to simply say 'Previously' or 'In the past,' but not both together. Similarly, avoid pairing it with 'ago' in the same phrase, such as 'previously two years ago.' Instead, use 'two years ago' or 'previously, in 2021.'

Incorrect: Previously the war, the city was a major trade hub.
Correct: Before the war, the city was a major trade hub.

Tense consistency is another area where learners struggle. While 'previously' can be used with the Past Simple, it is often more accurate to use the Past Perfect when the sentence is already set in the past. For instance, 'When I met him, he had previously been a sailor' is more precise than 'When I met him, he was previously a sailor.' The Past Perfect ('had been') clarifies that the state of being a sailor ended before the meeting took place. Using the wrong tense can lead to a slight 'blurring' of the timeline in the reader's mind.

Finally, be mindful of the register. Using 'previously' in a very casual conversation with friends can sometimes sound a bit stiff or overly formal. If you are at a party and say, 'I previously ate a sandwich,' your friends might think you are being intentionally funny or overly dramatic. In casual speech, 'before' or 'earlier' is usually the more natural choice. Save 'previously' for situations where you want to sound precise, professional, or narrative-driven. By avoiding these common errors, you will ensure that your use of 'previously' enhances your communication rather than making it sound awkward or incorrect.

To truly master the concept of 'earlier time,' it is helpful to compare previously with its synonyms and near-synonyms. While they all point to the past, each has a specific 'flavor' or register that makes it suitable for different contexts. Understanding these differences will allow you to choose the exact right word for your needs.

Previously vs. Before: 'Before' is the most versatile and common. It can be a preposition ('before lunch'), a conjunction ('before I go'), or an adverb ('I've seen this before'). 'Previously' is only an adverb and is more formal. Use 'previously' in writing and 'before' in speech.

Another close relative is formerly. While 'previously' can refer to a single event that happened earlier, 'formerly' usually refers to a sustained state or a status that has since changed. For example, 'He was previously a teacher' (he taught at some point before) vs. 'He was formerly the principal' (he held that specific title for a period). 'Formerly' is also the standard word for old names of places or people: 'St. Petersburg was formerly known as Leningrad.'

Comparison:
1. 'I previously mentioned the cost.' (Refers to a specific moment in a conversation).
2. 'The building was formerly a factory.' (Refers to a long-term past state).

Earlier is another common alternative. It is less formal than 'previously' and often refers to a time not very long ago. 'I saw him earlier' usually means earlier today. 'Previously' can refer to any time in the past, whether it was five minutes ago or five centuries ago. In academic writing, 'earlier' is often used to refer to a previous part of the same text: 'As mentioned earlier in this chapter...'

Finally, consider beforehand. This adverb specifically means 'in anticipation of an event' or 'in advance.' You might say, 'I prepared my speech beforehand.' You wouldn't usually say 'I prepared my speech previously' unless you were referring to a time long before the event. 'Beforehand' looks forward to a specific event, while 'previously' simply looks back at the past. By understanding these nuances, you can navigate the temporal landscape of English with much greater precision and variety.

Summary Table

Previously: Formal, general past adverb.
Before: Common, multi-functional (preposition/adverb).
Formerly: Refers to a past status or name.
Earlier: Less formal, often refers to the recent past.
Beforehand: Means 'in advance' of a specific event.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

The word 'previously' only became common in English in the 18th century. Before that, people mostly used 'before' or 'formerly.'

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈpriː.vi.əs.li/

US /ˈpriː.vi.əs.li/

Primary stress on the first syllable: PRE-vi-ous-ly.

Rhymes With

Obviously Deviously Enviously Imperviously Seriously Curiously Gloriously Victoriously

Common Errors

Pronouncing it as 'pre-VYE-ous-ly' (wrong stress).
Missing the 'i' sound: 'prev-ous-ly'.
Pronouncing 'ous' like 'house'.
Confusing the spelling with 'preveously'.
Saying 'previous' when an adverb is needed.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Easy to recognize in context, very common in news and books.

Writing 6/5

Requires knowledge of sentence position and formal register.

Speaking 5/5

Can sound a bit stiff if used too much in casual talk.

Listening 4/5

Important for understanding recaps and news reports.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

Before Past Earlier Time First

Learn Next

Subsequently Formerly Prior to Precede Simultaneously

Advanced

Heretofore Hitherto Antecedent Retrospective Chronological

Grammar to Know

Adverb Placement

He previously lived here. (Mid-position)

Past Perfect Tense

I had previously seen the film. (Action before another past action)

Reduced Relative Clauses

The data previously collected was useful. (Shortened from 'which was previously collected')

Modifying Adjectives

A previously unknown species. (Adverb + Adjective + Noun)

Sentence Adverbials

Previously, the company was small. (Setting the timeframe for the whole sentence)

Examples by Level

I lived in Spain previously.

I lived in Spain before.

Put 'previously' at the end of the sentence.

Previously, I was a student.

Before, I was a student.

Use a comma after 'Previously' at the start.

He previously had a cat.

He had a cat before.

'Previously' comes before the main verb 'had'.

We previously met at the park.

We met at the park before.

This describes a past event.

Previously, the shop was closed.

Before, the shop was closed.

Use 'Previously' to describe a past state.

I previously saw this movie.

I saw this movie before.

Similar to 'I have seen this movie before'.

The car was previously red.

The car was red before.

Use it to describe a change in color.

Previously, she lived in a small house.

Before, she lived in a small house.

Contrast with her current house.

As previously mentioned, the meeting is at 10 AM.

Like I said before, the meeting is at 10.

A very common formal phrase.

The house was previously owned by my uncle.

My uncle owned the house before.

Passive voice: 'was previously owned'.

I had not previously visited this city.

I had never visited this city before.

Used with Past Perfect for emphasis.

Previously, we used paper maps, but now we use GPS.

Before, we used paper maps...

Used to show a clear contrast.

She previously worked for a large bank.

She worked at a big bank before.

Standard adverb position.

The price was previously much lower.

The price was lower before.

Modifying the state of the price.

I previously thought he was French.

I thought he was French before.

Refers to a past belief.

Previously, the park was open 24 hours.

Before, the park was always open.

Describes a change in rules.

The symptoms had not been previously reported by patients.

Patients hadn't reported these symptoms before.

Formal medical context.

He is much happier than he was previously.

He is happier than he was before.

Comparing a current state to a past state.

The company previously focused on the European market.

The company used to focus on Europe.

Discussing business strategy history.

I had previously decided to quit, but I changed my mind.

I had already decided to leave...

Past Perfect shows the decision happened first.

This species was previously unknown to science.

Scientists didn't know about this species before.

'Previously' modifying the adjective 'unknown'.

The document, as previously stated, must be signed by Friday.

Like we said before, sign the document by Friday.

Parenthetical use for emphasis.

Previously, women were not allowed to vote in many countries.

In the past, women couldn't vote...

Referring to a historical period.

I previously worked as a freelance writer for three years.

I was a freelance writer before for three years.

Describing a specific duration in the past.

The law, which was previously quite lenient, has been significantly tightened.

The law used to be easy, but now it's strict.

Used in a relative clause to provide context.

Previously on 'The Crown', the Queen visited Wales.

In the last episode of 'The Crown'...

Standard TV recap phrasing.

The researchers built upon data previously collected in the 1990s.

The researchers used data from the 90s.

Refers to a specific past collection period.

The suspect had previously been convicted of a similar offense.

The suspect was found guilty of this before.

Legal context, using Past Perfect passive.

The island, previously uninhabited, is now a popular tourist destination.

Nobody lived on the island before, but now tourists go there.

Contrasting a past state with a current one.

I had previously assumed that the project would be finished by now.

I thought the project would be done already.

Expressing a past assumption that turned out to be wrong.

The software update fixes several bugs previously identified by users.

The update fixes bugs that users found before.

Technical context, modifying 'identified'.

Previously, the two countries had enjoyed a close diplomatic relationship.

Before, the two countries were friends.

Setting the scene for a change in international relations.

The findings contradict previously established theories regarding climate change.

The results go against what we thought before about climate.

Academic context, modifying 'established'.

The author explores themes that were only previously touched upon in her earlier work.

The author looks at ideas she only mentioned briefly before.

Literary analysis context.

Previously, it was believed that the brain could not regenerate cells in adulthood.

People used to think the brain couldn't grow new cells.

Passive 'it was believed' construction.

The company's success is attributed to a strategy previously dismissed as too risky.

The company won because of a plan people thought was too dangerous before.

Refers to a past evaluation of a strategy.

The witness's testimony was consistent with statements she had previously given to the police.

What the witness said matched her earlier police statements.

Legal context, emphasizing consistency over time.

The city's infrastructure, previously neglected for decades, is finally being modernized.

The city's roads and pipes were ignored for years, but now they are being fixed.

Using 'previously' to justify current actions.

He had previously hinted at his resignation, so the news was not entirely unexpected.

He said he might quit before, so we weren't surprised.

Connecting a past hint to a present reaction.

The exhibition features several paintings that have never been previously displayed in public.

The show has paintings that no one has seen in public before.

Using 'never... previously' for maximum impact.

The nuances of the treaty, previously obscured by political rhetoric, are now becoming clear.

The details of the deal were hidden by talk, but now we see them.

Metaphorical use of 'obscured'.

The philosopher's later works represent a significant departure from the positions he had previously held.

The philosopher's new books are very different from his old ideas.

Discussing intellectual evolution.

The region, previously a bastion of traditionalism, is undergoing rapid social change.

The area used to be very traditional, but it's changing fast.

Sociological context.

The error was caused by a previously undetected flaw in the system's architecture.

A hidden mistake in the system caused the problem.

Technical/Engineering context.

The project was abandoned due to logistical challenges that had not been previously anticipated.

They stopped the project because of problems they didn't expect before.

Formal project management context.

The actor's performance was lauded for its depth, a quality previously missing from his work.

The actor was praised for being deep, which he wasn't before.

Critical review context.

The document provides a comprehensive overview of the events previously alluded to in the report.

The paper explains the events that were only mentioned briefly before.

Formal academic/bureaucratic context.

The discovery of the manuscript challenged everything that was previously known about the period.

Finding the old book changed all our ideas about that time.

Historical/Scientific paradigm shift.

Synonyms

earlier beforehand formerly heretofore prior already

Antonyms

currently subsequently later

Common Collocations

previously mentioned

previously unknown

previously stated

previously recorded

previously owned

previously unseen

previously discussed

previously identified

previously published

previously thought

Common Phrases

As previously discussed

— Referring back to a conversation that happened earlier. Used to ensure everyone remembers the details.

As previously discussed, we will start the project on Monday.

Previously on...

— A phrase used at the start of TV shows to recap what happened in earlier episodes.

Previously on 'Game of Thrones', the dragons grew larger.

Never previously

— Used to emphasize that something has truly never happened before in history.

Such a high temperature has never previously been recorded here.

Than previously

— Used in comparisons to show how something has changed from the past.

The house is much cleaner than previously.

Previously known as

— Used to give the former name of a person, place, or thing.

The artist previously known as Prince.

As previously noted

— A formal way to say 'as I said before' in writing.

As previously noted, the budget is limited.

Previously reported

— Referring to information that was already given in the news or a report.

The casualty count is higher than previously reported.

Previously scheduled

— Referring to an event that was planned for an earlier time.

The previously scheduled flight was canceled.

Previously occupied

— Describing a place where someone lived or worked before.

The office was previously occupied by a law firm.

Previously experienced

— Referring to a feeling or situation someone has had before.

She had never previously experienced such joy.

Often Confused With

previously vs Before

'Before' can be a preposition ('before the party'), but 'previously' cannot. 'Previously' is only an adverb.

previously vs Formerly

'Formerly' usually refers to a long-term state or a name change. 'Previously' is more general for any past time.

previously vs Beforehand

'Beforehand' means 'in advance' of a specific future event. 'Previously' just means 'in the past'.

Idioms & Expressions

"Previously unheard of"

— Something so new or strange that it has never happened or been known before.

A salary of that size was previously unheard of in this industry.

Formal

"As previously agreed"

— Following the terms of a deal made in the past.

The payment was made as previously agreed.

Business/Legal

"Previously established"

— Something that has already been proven or set up.

We must follow the previously established guidelines.

Formal

"Previously mentioned"

— Referring to something said earlier in the same text.

The previously mentioned factors are crucial.

Academic

"Previously unseen"

— Something that has existed but was never shown to the public.

The museum is showing previously unseen sketches by Picasso.

Media/Art

"Previously thought to be"

— Used to introduce a past belief that has now changed.

The painting, previously thought to be a fake, is actually genuine.

Academic/Journalism

"Previously recorded"

— Referring to media that was made at an earlier time.

This program was previously recorded.

Media

"Previously unknown"

— Something that existed but was not discovered until now.

They found a previously unknown species of frog.

Scientific

"Previously stated"

— Referring to a formal statement made in the past.

The witness stood by her previously stated testimony.

Legal

"Previously occupied"

— Describing a space that had a different use or owner in the past.

The land was previously occupied by a small farm.

Formal

Easily Confused

previously vs Previous

Adjective vs. Adverb.

Use 'previous' to describe a noun ('the previous day'). Use 'previously' to describe a verb or adjective ('he previously lived here').

The previous owner lived here previously.

previously vs Ago

Both refer to the past.

'Ago' must follow a specific amount of time ('two years ago'). 'Previously' does not need a specific time.

I saw him two years ago. I had previously seen him in London.

previously vs Once

Both mean 'in the past'.

'Once' often implies 'only one time' or 'a long time ago'. 'Previously' is more about the sequence of events.

I once visited Paris. I had previously visited Lyon.

previously vs Already

Both refer to things that happened before now.

'Already' suggests something happened sooner than expected. 'Previously' just states that it happened before.

I have already finished. I previously finished the first part.

previously vs Prior

Similar meaning.

'Prior' is usually an adjective ('prior engagement') or part of a prepositional phrase ('prior to'). 'Previously' is an adverb.

Prior to the meeting, we had previously discussed the budget.

Sentence Patterns

I [Verb] previously.

I lived there previously.

Previously, [Sentence].

Previously, the shop was open.

Subject [Auxiliary] previously [Verb].

He has previously worked here.

A previously [Adjective] [Noun].

A previously unknown virus.

As previously [Verb-ed] by [Person]...

As previously stated by the manager...

The [Noun] previously [Verb-ed]...

The issues previously identified were resolved.

It was previously [Verb-ed] that...

It was previously thought that the earth was flat.

Than was previously [Adjective].

The situation is more complex than was previously realized.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Very common in written English, news, and formal speech. Less common in casual slang.

Common Mistakes

Previously the meeting, I was nervous. → Before the meeting, I was nervous.
'Previously' is an adverb, not a preposition. It cannot be followed directly by a noun phrase like 'the meeting.'
I saw him previously two days ago. → I saw him two days ago.
Using 'previously' and 'ago' together is redundant. 'Ago' already specifies the past time.
He was previously known as a doctor. → He was formerly a doctor.
While not strictly wrong, 'formerly' is better for describing a past profession or title held over a long period.
I previously have seen this movie. → I have previously seen this movie.
The adverb should usually go after the first auxiliary verb ('have') in a compound tense.
Previously in the past, people traveled by horse. → In the past, people traveled by horse.
'Previously' and 'in the past' mean the same thing. Using both is unnecessary wordiness.

Tips

Placement Matters

In formal writing, place 'previously' between the subject and the verb (e.g., 'The company previously announced...') for a smoother flow.

Avoid Redundancy

Don't say 'previously in the past.' Choose one. 'Previously' already tells the reader it happened in the past.

Use with Adjectives

Use 'previously' to modify adjectives like 'unknown,' 'unseen,' or 'unheard of' to sound more advanced.

Professional Recap

Use 'As previously mentioned' in meetings to politely remind people of what you said earlier without sounding repetitive.

TV Recaps

Pay attention to the 'Previously on...' segment of your favorite show to hear the word used in its most common cultural context.

Academic Linkage

In essays, use 'previously' to link your current argument to research you cited earlier in the paper.

Not a Preposition

Remember: You can't say 'previously the war.' You must say 'before the war' or 'previously, during the war.'

Past Perfect Partner

Pair 'previously' with the Past Perfect ('had previously...') when telling a story that involves multiple past events.

Previously vs. Formerly

Use 'formerly' for names and titles, and 'previously' for general actions and events.

B2 Exam Tip

Using 'previously' correctly in the writing section of a B2 exam will show the examiner you have a strong grasp of formal adverbs.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'PRE' (before) and 'VIEW' (to look). 'Previously' is when you 'view' something that happened 'pre' (before) now.

Visual Association

Imagine a 'Rewind' button on a remote control. When you press it, you are looking at what happened previously.

Word Web

Past Before Earlier Formerly History Sequence Time Recap

Challenge

Try to write three sentences about your life five years ago using 'previously' in three different positions (start, middle, end).

Word Origin

Derived from the adjective 'previous' with the adverbial suffix '-ly'. 'Previous' comes from the Latin 'praevius', meaning 'going before'.

Original meaning: The Latin root 'prae' means 'before' and 'via' means 'way' or 'road'. So, it literally meant 'on the road before.'

Indo-European -> Italic -> Latin -> English.

Cultural Context

No specific sensitivities, but avoid using it to bring up someone's negative past in a rude way.

Very common in US and UK media and business. It is a 'high-frequency' academic word.

The 'Previously on...' recap in shows like 'Lost' or 'Breaking Bad'. The phrase 'Previously known as Prince'. Legal phrases like 'previously convicted'.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Job Interviews

I previously managed...
In my previously held position...
As I previously mentioned...
I have previously worked with...

Academic Writing

As previously noted...
Previously established theories...
A previously unknown factor...
It was previously thought that...

Television/Media

Previously on...
Previously unseen footage...
As previously reported...
Previously recorded program...

Legal/Police

Previously convicted of...
Previously stated testimony...
Previously identified suspect...
Previously signed contract...

Daily Life

I previously saw that...
We previously went there...
As I previously said...
It was previously cheaper...

Conversation Starters

"Have you ever visited a place that you had previously only seen in movies?"

"What is a hobby that you previously enjoyed but don't have time for now?"

"Is there a food you previously hated but now you love?"

"What was your life like previously, before you started your current job?"

"Have you ever discovered something about your family that was previously unknown?"

Journal Prompts

Write about a time you had to change a decision you had previously made. Why did you change it?

Describe a place you live in now and how it was previously used before you moved there.

Reflect on a skill you previously struggled with but have now mastered.

Think about a person you previously misunderstood. What changed your opinion of them?

Compare your current daily routine with the one you previously followed two years ago.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, starting a sentence with 'Previously' is very common, especially when you want to create a contrast with the present. For example, 'Previously, we used a different system.' Make sure to put a comma after it.

Yes, 'previously' is considered more formal and professional. You will see it more often in business emails, news reports, and academic papers. In casual conversation, 'before' or 'earlier' is more common.

'Previously' is a general word for any time in the past. 'Formerly' is usually used for a permanent state that has changed, like a job title or the name of a city. For example, 'He was formerly the CEO' sounds more natural than 'He was previously the CEO' if he held the job for a long time.

No, that is redundant. Both words mean the same thing. Just use one or the other. 'I saw him previously' or 'I saw him before' are both correct.

No, it doesn't. You can use it with the Past Simple ('I previously lived there'). However, the Past Perfect ('I had previously lived there') is often used when you are comparing two different times in the past.

It is pronounced PREE-vi-ous-ly. The stress is on the first syllable. It has four syllables.

No, 'previously' only refers to the past. For the future, you would use words like 'subsequently,' 'later,' or 'afterwards.'

It is a short way of saying 'Here is a summary of what happened in the episodes that came before this one.' It helps the audience remember the story.

No, 'previously' is an adverb. 'Previous' is the adjective. You say 'the previous day' (adjective) but 'he lived here previously' (adverb).

Yes! It is a great word for a resume. For example: 'Previously responsible for a team of five.' It sounds very professional.