previously

/'pri:viəsli/

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Explanation of the Word "Previously"

Definition: "Previously" is an adverb that means "at an earlier time" or "before now." It is used to describe something that happened or existed before the current time or situation.

Usage Instructions:

• Position in a Sentence: "Previously" is usually placed at the beginning of a sentence, in the middle, or at the end, depending on what you want to emphasize.
• Formality: It is often used in both formal and informal contexts.

Examples:

1. Basic Usage:

   • "She had previously lived in Chicago."
   • This means that before living in her current place, she lived in Chicago.

2. In a Professional Context:

   • "He was previously the president of a bank."
   • This indicates that he held that position before the current one.

3. In Comparisons:

   • "This solution is better than anything previously proposed."
   • Here, it compares the current solution to ideas that were suggested before.

Advanced Usage:

• In Academic Writing: "Previously" can be used to refer back to earlier studies or theories.

  • "The results were consistent with findings previously published in the journal."

• In Historical Context:

  • "The building was previously a school before it was converted into apartments."

Word Variants:

• There are no direct variants of "previously," but the root word "previous" (adjective) can be used to describe something that comes before.
  • Example: "The previous version of the document has been revised."

Different Meanings:

• "Previously" mainly retains the meaning of "before," but can be understood in various contexts, such as time, order, or sequence in events.

Synonyms:

• Before
• Earlier
• Formerly
• Once
• At an earlier time

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While "previously" does not have specific idioms or phrasal verbs associated with it, it can be used in phrases like: - "In the past" (meaning similar to previously) - "At one time" (indicating a previous period)

Summary:

"Previously" is a useful word to indicate something that happened before the current moment or situation. It helps to provide context and background, making your communication clearer.

Academic

Adverb

1. at an earlier time or formerly
   • she had previously lived in Chicago
   • he was previously president of a bank
   • better than anything previously proposed
   • a previously unquestioned attitude
   • antecedently arranged

Synonyms

• antecedently