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Definitions

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.

When she ran for mayor four years ago, Karen Bass said she wanted to regrow the Los Angeles Police Department to the 9,500-officer force it was before the ranks began to shrink.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 8, 2026

Jetelina agreed that it will get worse before it gets better.

From Salon • Apr. 8, 2026

The true identity of Satoshi Nakamoto is one of the internet's most enduring mysteries and Back has been accused of being Satoshi many times before.

From BBC • Apr. 8, 2026

On Earth, smaller objects "burn up high in the... atmosphere due to friction" before they reach the ground, noted Betts, which is not the case on Earth's natural satellite.

From Barron's • Apr. 8, 2026

I turn to leave, but when I glance back before I slip out the door, I’m surprised to see her wiping her eyes.

From "Red Flags and Butterflies" by Sheryl Azzam