PREVIOUSLY Synonyms: 30 Similar and Opposite Words

previously

adverb

Definition of previously

as in earlier

so as to precede something in order of time he had prepared the meat stocks previously so as to make things easier on the day of the big dinner

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of previously The Army Office of Special Trial Counsel previously alleged that there were 44 victims throughout 2025. — Mosheh Gains, NBC news, 13 Aug. 2026 He had also previously been accused of targeting two homes in Orinda for burglary in April. — Maddie White, CBS News, 13 Aug. 2026 Bernardo had previously been offered to Real by his agent, Jorge Mendes — who also represents Mourinho — but Madrid had ruled him out. — Mario Cortegana, New York Times, 13 Aug. 2026 Separate airport communications case The second case involves a Chinese man in his 60s who police said also previously served in the Chinese military. — Yoonjung Seo, CNN Money, 13 Aug. 2026 Its own store gives DeMellier control over a part of the customer relationship previously handed to other retailers, while putting it physically alongside businesses charging multiples of its prices. — Kate Hardcastle, Forbes.com, 13 Aug. 2026 The body was previously composed of seven mayoral appointees. — Kate Armanini, Chicago Tribune, 13 Aug. 2026 Prosecutors say Beirich, who previously led the SPLC's hate groups tracking section, was one among several individuals who oversaw payments to individuals who infiltrated white supremacist groups and acted as informants for SPLC. — Alexander Mallin, ABC News, 12 Aug. 2026 Ted Sarandos had previously committed to a six-week window should the streamer’s deal for WB go through. — Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 12 Aug. 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for previously

Adverb

While Signature is already represented at both California airports, that may not mean much.

— Doug Gollan, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026
In many ways, staffers say, the shooting was a manifestation of an attack the agency was already feeling.

— Brenda Goodman, CNN Money, 7 Aug. 2026

Definition of already

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previously

previous to

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“Previously.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/previously. Accessed 14 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of previously

adverb

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