before

//bɪˈfɔːr//
A2Frequency Level 2Neutral
Visual representation of before

Preposition

1

During the period of time preceding (a particular event or time)

I always have breakfast before work.

2

In front of (in space or position)

She stood before the mirror.

3

In the presence of; being faced or confronted by

She stood before the judge to answer the charges.

4

In preference to; rather than

She chose quality before quantity.

Conjunction

1

In advance of the time when; earlier than the time that

Call me before you leave.

2

Rather than; in preference to

I would die before I betray my friends.

Antonym

Adverb

1

At an earlier time; previously; in the past

I've been to Paris before.

2

Ahead in position or space

She walked before, and I followed behind.

Synonym

Antonym