a record before

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a record before" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are referring to a prior record or documentation related to a specific subject or event. Example: "The committee reviewed a record before making their final decision on the proposal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

There's a song on Privateering called "Yon Two Crows" and that's just a hill farmer's song, but I had a song on a record before called "Hill Farmer's Blues," which is the same kind of character.

Huffington Post

Gold continued its surge, hitting $1,049.70 an ounce, a record, before settling at $1,044.20.

The New York Times

Gold for August delivery rose as high as $1,594.90 on Thursday, a record before adjusting for inflation.

The New York Times

It's a measure of Lloyd Webber's love of the concept album that he released "Jesus Christ Superstar" as a record before the play was staged.

The New Yorker

It's a pleasant antidote to British music radio, which tends to enthuse about a record before playing it, thereby often prejudicing you against it.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

There was even a touch on Tuesday, leaving the city close to setting a record before the month floated into history at midnight.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

And, at the turn of the last century, the legendary jazz cornettist Buddy Bolden makes a recording before succumbing to a crippling mental illness.

The New Yorker

You tried to grab a record book before they all got thrown on the bonfires.

BBC

Suddenly, a team that had a losing record before Mr. Pincus showed up was on a roll.

The New York Times

A 12-lead electrocardiogram was recorded before, immediately after and at 3, 5, and 7 min after exercise.

Cardiovascular Diabetology

Azalea described the track as "a legend" and a "mysterious record", before she could finally hear it.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a record before", ensure the context clearly indicates what type of record is being referenced. Be specific to avoid ambiguity. For example, "a criminal record before the incident".

Common error

Avoid using "a record before" without specifying what the record pertains to. Saying simply "he had a record before" lacks clarity. Instead, specify, such as "He had a disciplinary record before this promotion".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a record before" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as an adjunct that modifies another noun or clause. Ludwig AI confirms its typical usage in providing context about prior events or states, emphasizing sequence.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a record before" is a versatile phrase used to reference prior events or established history. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's grammatically correct and commonly found in news and general informational contexts. To enhance clarity, ensure the context specifies the nature of the "record". Alternatives like "prior history" or "previous performance" can offer more concise wording. The analysis underscores its neutral register and frequent usage in news and media sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a prior history

Focuses on the historical aspect and sequence of events.

a previous accomplishment

Emphasizes past achievements and successes.

an existing documentation

Highlights the presence of documented information.

a preceding account

Stresses the chronological order of an event.

a preliminary log

Highlights something that serve as a precursor.

a background

Highlights the context related to the topic.

a history beforehand

Highlights something that serve as a precursor.

a file in advance

Highlights something that happens in front of something.

something that predates

Emphasizes the timing of events and their chronological order.

a report in the past

References a previously created report.

FAQs

How can I use "a record before" in a sentence?

You can use "a record before" to indicate a past history or performance. For example, "The company had "a strong record before" the economic downturn" or "He had "a clean record before" this incident".

What does "a record before" mean?

"A record before" generally refers to a history of actions, achievements, or data that has been previously documented or established. It's used to indicate prior performance or status.

Which is more appropriate, "a record before" or "previous record"?

Both "a record before" and "previous record" are acceptable, but "previous record" is often more concise and direct. The best choice depends on the context and the desired emphasis.

What are some alternatives to "a record before"?

Alternatives include "prior history", "previous performance", or "established history". The best choice will depend on the specific context and the intended meaning.