# prior to

idiom · CEFR B2

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/prior-to
Updated: 2026-04-22

## Meaning

before a specific time or event. You use this in more formal writing or speech to show that one thing happened first.

## Examples

- Please finish your work prior to the meeting.
- You must submit your application prior to the deadline if you want to be considered for the position.
- The committee reviewed the historical evidence prior to making a final decision regarding the preservation of the ancient site.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.