Basic Details
Word: Previously
Part of Speech: Adverb
Meaning: At a time before the present or before a particular point in time.
Synonyms: Earlier, formerly, before
Antonyms: Subsequently, later, afterward
Idioms and Phrases
- Previously on: This phrase is often used to summarise events that happened before in a story or show. Example: "Previously on our adventure, we discovered a hidden cave."
- Previously stated: This refers to something that has been mentioned before in conversation or writing. Example: "As previously stated in our meeting, we will proceed with the project next month."
Usage Examples
Example 1: Previously, I lived in a small town before moving to the city.
Example 2: The book mentioned that previously, the castle was home to a famous king.
Example 3: Previously, we had a different plan for our holiday, but we changed it.
Fun Fact
The word "previously" comes from the Latin word "praevius," which means "going before." It has been used in English since the early 17th century!
Famous Quote
"Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it." George Santayana
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "previously" mean?
a) Later
b) At a time before the present
c) Now
d) Frequently
Answer: b) At a time before the present
2. Which of these is a synonym of "previously"?
a) Later
b) Earlier
c) After
d) Happily
Answer: b) Earlier
3. Which sentence uses "previously" correctly?
a) I will previously go to the store tomorrow.
b) Previously, I had an orange before lunch began.
c) They arrived previously at the party.
d) She previously won an award for her painting.
Answer: d) She previously won an award for her painting.
4. Which idiom means the same as "previously"?
a) Previously stated
b) In a nutshell
c) All in all
d) All of a sudden
Answer: a) Previously stated
5. What is the opposite of "previously"?
a) Before
b) Subsequently
c) Formerly
d) Previously
Answer: b) Subsequently
