Before Meaning
Before Definition & Usage
Indicates a point in time that is earlier than a specified event or action.
Examples
- "I always wake up before 7 a.m."
- "We need to leave before the storm hits."
- "The meeting starts before lunch."
- "She finished her homework before dinner."
- "I had never seen a movie like this before."
Earlier than a specific point or event.
Examples
- "The train arrived before."
- "Before, he used to be quite shy."
- "Have you been here before?"
- "She had never met him before."
- "He arrived just before I left."
Used to indicate that something happened prior to something else, often implying a contrast or condition.
Examples
- "I would have helped you before, if I had known."
- "She smiled before she said anything."
- "Before I answer your question, let me explain."
- "Before we continue, do you have any questions?"
- "He hesitated before making his decision."
Cultural Context
The word 'before' has been used in English since Old English ('beforan'), retaining its meaning related to time and sequence. It is a foundational word in many languages and is ubiquitous in conversation, literature, and formal writing.
The Decision Before Dawn
Story
The Decision Before Dawn
The first rays of light were beginning to stretch across the horizon as Mia sat on the porch, staring at the path that led into the woods. The decision she needed to make weighed heavily on her, one that had been looming for days. She could still hear her mother’s voice from the night before, urging her to leave before it was too late. 'You need to make a choice before it’s dark,' her mother had said, her voice trembling with concern. Mia had promised to consider her options, but now, with the morning light filtering through the trees, she wasn’t sure what to do.
Related Words
