Before

/bɪˈfɔːr/

Meaning & Definition

preposition

At an earlier time than; prior to.

I always have breakfast before going to work.

In front of; ahead of.

He stood before the crowd to give his speech.

conjunction

At an earlier time than the time when; prior to.

She left before the meeting started.

In the time leading up to a point in time.

You should finish your homework before you go out.

adverb

Earlier; previously.

I had seen that movie before.

Old English 'beforan', meaning 'in front of' or 'earlier than'

before long

In a short while.

the calm before the storm

A period of peace before chaos.

better safe than sorry

It's wiser to be cautious than to act recklessly.

after

Subsequent to; following.

during

Throughout the course of; in the period of.

prior

Existing or coming before.

fore

To be at the front or forefront.

I'll see you B4 the party.

Beforehand

Make sure to check it beforehand.