Before

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Pronunciation

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Preposition

1. If $x$ happens before $y$, $x$ happens first and $y$ happens second. Template:Antonyms

   He worked in a gas station before he became famous.

   Put out the fire before the house burns down.

   I have not been there before.

   She finished before me.

2. in front of something Template:Antonyms

   She stood before him, looking into his eyes.

3. until

   It took a few moments before I realized that she was joking.

Usage notes

The preposition before can be preceded by a modifier specifying the length of time that has gone by. For example:

• Haroun's journey to England had begun many years before.

Related words

• fore