In prior

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'In prior' is not correct or usable in written English.
It is not the correct usage of any English word, and as such, should not be used in written English. The correct phrase is 'Previously' or 'In the past'. For example: Previously, I had no experience in gardening.

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

In prior years, they may well have been more aggressive.

The New Yorker

"In prior administrations, they spent no money on Staten Island," Mr. Giuliani said.

The New York Times

In prior periods, you've had price spikes because of big disruptions in supplies.

The New York Times

In prior years, only about half of those who had applied showed up on test day.

The New York Times

In prior Bulge re-enactments, Mr. Cessna's son Brian was at his side.

The New York Times - Travel

"In prior years, people tried to artificially separate a person's work life from their work life.

The New York Times

"In prior years, rising health care prices drove up spending.

The New York Times

In prior work, MaxSim has consistently outperformed MeanSim [36].

Journal of Cheminformatics

In prior experiences, she's waited," Moody said.

Los Angeles Times

That is consistent with the percentage stopped in prior years, Mr. Dunn said.

The New York Times

Instead, she said, PETA's phone-tapping accusations come from a "pattern" laid out in prior lawsuits.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using the phrase "In prior" in formal writing. Opt for grammatically correct alternatives like "previously", "in the past", or "prior to this" for clarity and precision.

Common error

A common mistake is using "in" with "prior" as if it's analogous to "in the past". "Prior" already functions as an adjective indicating precedence, making "in" redundant and incorrect. Use alternatives like "previously", "in the past" or "prior to this".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "In prior" functions as an adverbial modifier intended to indicate a time or event that precedes the current one. While Ludwig provides examples of its usage, it is crucial to note Ludwig AI's assessment that this phrase is grammatically incorrect.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

43%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

While the phrase "In prior" appears in various sources, it's important to acknowledge its grammatical incorrectness. Ludwig provides examples demonstrating its use, but Ludwig AI clearly states that the phrase is not correct in written English. Alternatives such as "previously", "in the past", and "prior to this" offer more grammatically sound and precise ways to express the intended meaning. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid using "In prior" in formal writing and opt for these alternatives to ensure clarity and correctness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Previously

Emphasizes that something occurred at an earlier time.

Prior to this

Highlights temporal precedence of an event relative to the present.

In the past

Highlights that something happened at some unspecified earlier point in time.

Before now

Directly contrasts a past occurrence with the current moment.

Formerly

Indicates a previous state, condition, or time.

In earlier times

Stresses the difference between the present and an era further back.

Heretofore

Signifies something that has existed or occurred up to this point.

In former times

Similar to "in earlier times", but with a slightly stronger focus on times long past.

In days gone by

Evokes a sense of nostalgia, referring to the past.

Aforetime

Indicates something done, existing, or happening at an earlier time.

FAQs

Why is "In prior" considered grammatically incorrect?

The phrase "In prior" is grammatically incorrect because the word "prior" already implies a sense of before or earlier. Using "in" before "prior" is redundant and doesn't follow standard English grammar rules. Consider using "previously" or "in the past" instead.

What are some alternatives to "In prior" that I can use in my writing?

Instead of "In prior", you can use phrases like "previously", "prior to this", "formerly", or "in the past". The best choice depends on the specific context of your sentence.

Is "In prior" ever acceptable to use?

While you may find the phrase "In prior" in some informal contexts, it's generally best to avoid it in formal writing. Sticking to grammatically correct alternatives like "previously" or "in the past" will make your writing clearer and more professional.

How can I remember to avoid using "In prior" in my writing?

A helpful tip is to think of "prior" as already including the idea of "before" or "earlier". When you're tempted to write "In prior", pause and ask yourself if "previously", "prior to this", or "in the past" would be a better fit. Using alternative phrases will make your writing correct.