What is prior? Pronunciation and usage in English

prior means . Learn how to pronounce and use prior through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of prior

prioradjective

/ˈprʌɪə/
Definition & pronunciation of prior

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "prior." It's a tricky one because it's often mispronounced! Here's the breakdown:

The Correct Pronunciation:

  • ˈpraɪər (in American English)
  • ˈpraɪər (in British English - though some British speakers pronounce it closer to “pree-or”)

Let’s break it down syllable by syllable:

  1. "pri-": This sounds like "pry" – as in, "pry into something." Think of the "pry" sound quickly.

  2. "-or": This sounds like "ear" – as in, "dear." It’s a short, clear "er" sound.

Putting it together:

Say it quickly: “Pry-er”

Tips & Common Mistakes:

  • Don't say "pyor": This is the most common mistake. It’s not a “pie-or” sound.
  • Focus on the "pry" sound: Getting that initial sound right is key.
  • Don’t stretch it out: It’s a short, clipped pronunciation.

Resources for Hearing it:

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation?
  • Give you some example sentences using the word "prior"?

Usage and examples with the word prior in English

Let's break down how to use the word "prior" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different meanings and grammatical roles.

1. As an Adjective (Most Common Usage): Meaning "Previous" or "Earlier"

This is the most frequent way you’ll encounter "prior." It describes something that comes before something else.

  • Example: “The prior year’s results showed a significant increase in sales.” (The year before this one)
  • Example: “The prior agreement was terminated due to disputes.” (The agreement that was in place before)
  • Example: “We need to consider the prior evidence before making a decision.” (The evidence that came before)

2. As an Adverb (Less Common): Meaning "Previously"

This usage emphasizes that something happened or was done before.

  • Example: "He was prior informed of the meeting." (He was told about the meeting beforehand.)
  • Example: "Please review the prior reports." (Please review the reports that came before.)

3. As a Noun (Formal and Legal Contexts): Meaning "Something That Precedes"

In formal writing, legal documents, and sometimes academic contexts, “prior” is used as a noun to refer to something that precedes something else.

  • Example: “The prior owner of the property has the right of first refusal.” (The previous owner)
  • Example: “The prior ruling set a precedent for the case.” (The earlier ruling)

4. "Prior to" – A Common Phrase

A very common construction using "prior" is “prior to.” This is simply a more formal way of saying “before.”

  • Example: “Prior to the renovations, the building was in disrepair.” (Before the renovations)
  • Example: “Prior to starting the project, we need approval from management.” (Before starting the project)

Key Differences & Nuances:

  • “Previously” is often a simpler and more conversational alternative to "prior" as an adverb.
  • “Prior to” is always a safer bet when you want to be precise about something happening earlier.
  • "Prior" as a noun sounds very formal and is often found in legal or official contexts.

Here's a table to summarize:

Part of Speech Meaning Example
Adjective Previous, Earlier The prior edition of the book is better.
Adverb Previously He consulted with his prior supervisor.
Noun Something preceding The prior contract was invalid.
Phrase Before Prior to the test, study the material.

Resources for Further Learning:

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • Why are you wanting to use the word “prior”? (What are you writing about?)
  • Could you provide the sentence where you’re considering using “prior”?

Synonyms for the word prior

Practice with vocabulary prior

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. All necessary documents must be submitted ______ to the application deadline.
  2. Extensive ______ planning is crucial for the successful execution of complex projects.
  3. The team discussed the ______ steps required to launch the new software update.
  4. Please ensure you have a clear understanding of the project's ______ objectives.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (there may be multiple correct answers per question)

  1. To indicate an event that happened before a main event, you might use: a) concurrent b) subsequent c) prior d) preceding e) future

  2. To indicate that something existed or occurred at an earlier time, you could use: a) afterward b) preceding c) subsequent d) prior e) later

  3. When preparing for a presentation, it is essential to conduct ______ research. a) preliminary b) current c) in-depth d) prior e) ongoing

  4. Which word describes something that is happening right now? a) former b) current c) previous d) upcoming e) present

  5. If one action happens immediately after another, it is considered: a) preceding b) primary c) initial d) subsequent e) following

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: You must complete the safety training before you can operate this machinery. Rewrite using "prior" or a related word form: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

  2. Original: The manager stressed the importance of identifying the most crucial tasks for the project. Rewrite using "prior" or a related word form: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

  3. Original: The company will announce its financial results from the last quarter next month. Rewrite using a suitable replacement word (do not use "prior" or related forms): _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. prior
  2. prior
  3. subsequent
  4. primary

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. c) prior, d) preceding
  2. b) preceding, d) prior
  3. a) preliminary, c) in-depth, d) prior
  4. b) current, e) present
  5. d) subsequent, e) following

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. You must complete the safety training prior to operating this machinery.
  2. The manager stressed the importance of prioritizing the project's most crucial tasks.
  3. The company will announce its financial results from the previous quarter next month.

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