english
1
general::
In addition to the idioms beginning with BEFORE, Also see BUSINESS BEFORE PLEASURE; CART BEFORE THE HORSE; CAST PEARLS BEFORE SWINE; LOOK BEFORE YOU LEAP; PRIDE GOES BEFORE A FALL.
American Heritage Idioms
2
general::
before
earlier than something or someone:
• She could read before she started school. • Do you want to have a shower before me?
prior to
formal before something happens:
• Please arrive at the airport two hours prior to departure.
by
no later than a particular time or date:
• The children are usually in bed by 9 o'clock. • We have to be out of our hotel room by 10 o'clock.
earlier
before now, or before the time you are talking about:
• I saw her earlier. • I had sent the letter earlier in the week.
previously
before now, or before a time in the past:
• He previously worked as an electrician. • The show starred a previously unknown actress called Jennifer Aniston.
in advance
before something happens – used especially when talking about the arrangements for something:
• Let me know in advance if you are going to be late. • The landlord wants three months’ rent in advance.
beforehand
( also ahead of time ) before something happens, especially so that you are ready:
• I wish we had known about all this beforehand. • It’s always best to decide beforehand how much you want to pay.
Longman-Thesaurus
3
general::
Phrase(s): *before someone
ahead of or in front of someone in order. (*Typically: be ~; get ~; go ~.) • Who is before Mary? • I am before all of you.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs
4
general::
prep.
in front of:
He was standing before the house.
conj.
prior to:
Before you go close the door.
adv.
previously:
We saw that movie before.
Simple Definitions