pre ‧ vi ‧ ous ‧ ly S3 W2 AC /ˈpriːviəsli/ BrE AmE adverb
[ Word Family: adverb : ↑ previously ; adjective : ↑ previous ]
before now or before a particular time:
Almost half the group had previously been heavy smokers.
two days/three years etc previously (=two days, three years etc before)
Six months previously he had smashed up his car.
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THESAURUS
▪ before earlier than something or someone:
She could read before she started school.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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It’s always best to decide beforehand how much you want to pay.