about the previous

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "about the previous" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something that was mentioned or discussed earlier in a conversation or text. Example: "I would like to clarify a few points about the previous discussion we had regarding the project timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

2. We did not know about the previous fires.

The Guardian

Sometimes there are grumbles about the previous year's sandwiches.

The Economist

"He's a big Mets fan, and we usually talk about the previous night's ball game".

The New York Times

The morning of the race, Jason felt awful about the previous night.

The New Yorker

On land, I started sorting through my gear and talking expansively about the previous night.

The New Yorker

We talk about the previous night's gig and his Prince-like sense of showmanship.

The Guardian - Music

The writer, in turn thinks about the previous Sept. when Jimmy was drafted.

The New Yorker

We spent the first part of every rehearsal with her telling me about the previous day.

The New York Times - Arts

To force immediate disclosure would invite unwelcome questions about the previous performance of the auditor.

The New York Times

Shoppers talked about the previous night's "Dateline NBC" and about the latest celebrity brouhahas.

The New York Times - Travel

But when we talk about the previous night's stage banter, she looks terrified.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "about the previous" to clearly link current information or discussion points to earlier ones, ensuring a smooth and coherent flow of ideas.

Common error

Avoid using "about the previous" when you actually mean "about the following" or "about the next". Ensure clarity in your reference to avoid confusing your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "about the previous" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a noun, verb, or adjective. As Ludwig AI suggests, it connects a current statement to a prior one, ensuring continuity. The examples demonstrate its use in referring back to events, discussions, or items already mentioned.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

31%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "about the previous" is a versatile and commonly used phrase that functions as a prepositional modifier. As Ludwig AI indicates, it serves to connect information by referencing something mentioned earlier. Predominantly found in news, media and scientific contexts, its neutral register makes it suitable for various writing styles. For writers aiming for precision, being mindful of temporal order and exploring synonyms ensures clarity and avoids confusion. The examples curated by Ludwig emphasize its value in providing context and ensuring a coherent flow of ideas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Concerning the prior

Uses a more formal word choice.

Regarding the last

Emphasizes the final item in a sequence.

Referring to what came before

More descriptive, less concise.

In relation to the preceding

Employs a more academic tone.

With respect to the former

Highlights a comparison between two things.

Touching on the earlier

Suggests a brief mention of something prior.

As to the foregoing

More formal and often used in legal contexts.

Relating to the above

Used when referring to something previously written or stated.

Concerning the antecedent

Focuses on a cause or origin.

Bearing on the preliminary

Implies something that precedes and prepares for something else.

FAQs

How can I use "about the previous" in a sentence?

You can use "about the previous" to refer back to something already mentioned, for example, "I need more details "about the previous" meeting's outcomes before making a decision."

What can I say instead of "about the previous"?

You can use alternatives like "concerning the prior", "regarding the last", or "in relation to the preceding" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "about the previous" or "about the last"?

Both "about the previous" and "about the last" can be correct, but "about the previous" is generally used to refer to something earlier in a sequence, while "about the last" often refers to the most recent item.

What's the difference between "about the previous" and "concerning the prior"?

"About the previous" is a more general phrase, while "concerning the prior" often suggests a more formal or technical context.