before taking off

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "before taking off" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an airplane, rocket, hot air balloon, or other flying object that is about to leave the ground or platform from which it was launched. For example: The pilot gave the passengers a safety briefing before taking off.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

First the heroine waits before taking off her cloak.

The New York Times

She suggested that he "tidy up" before taking off.

The New York Times

I also practice my emergency procedures many times before taking off.

Independent

Soon you may not have to speed-read your final words before taking off.

The New York Times

In it a dancer stands in profile before taking off in brisk, backward circles.

The New York Times - Arts

He chided pilots for not paying enough attention to notices about the restrictions before taking off.

The New York Times

For a few months in 2004 and 2005 house prices moderated, before taking off again.

The Economist

They twist stiff necks and stretch wings before taking off with a whirr.

The Guardian

Before taking off, Willy and his father clipped into their skis and adjusted pole straps.

The New York Times - Travel

— If a skater plants their toe before taking off, it's a toe jump.

The Washington Post

"They were buried where they were shot," the major retorted, before taking off in his jeep.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "before taking off" in the context of air travel, ensure that the subject is clearly defined. For example, specify whether you are referring to the pilot, the passengers, or the aircraft itself.

Common error

Avoid using "before taking off" in situations where the 'taking off' action isn't literal. The phrase implies a departure or launch, so ensure the context aligns with this meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "before taking off" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb or clause. Ludwig AI examples show it specifies the timing of an action in relation to a departure or launch, providing context to when something occurs.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Wiki

12%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "before taking off" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to describe events leading up to a departure, flight, or launch. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and widely accepted. With a neutral register, it fits comfortably in news, general writing, and even scientific contexts. To ensure clarity, always specify the subject performing the "taking off" action and ensure the context is literal, implying a physical departure. By understanding its function and purpose, you can confidently incorporate "before taking off" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

prior to departure

Uses more formal vocabulary to indicate the time preceding a journey or flight.

ahead of takeoff

Specifically refers to the period leading up to an aircraft's ascent.

in anticipation of departure

Highlights the expectation and preparation for a journey or flight.

leading up to departure

Focuses on the sequence of events that precede leaving a place.

just before leaving

Emphasizes the immediacy of the action before departure.

preceding the flight

Specifically relates to events happening before an air journey.

before the start

General term indicating events prior to any beginning.

in advance of departure

Stresses planning and preparation done before leaving.

before setting out

Focuses on the actions done before starting a journey or task.

prior to launching

Specifically used when referring to an event being launched.

FAQs

How can I use "before taking off" in a sentence?

You can use "before taking off" to describe actions or preparations made prior to a departure. For example, "The pilot completed the pre-flight checklist "before taking off"."

What are some alternatives to "before taking off"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "prior to departure", "ahead of takeoff", or "just before leaving".

Is it correct to say "prior to taking off"?

Yes, "prior to taking off" is grammatically correct and conveys the same meaning as ""before taking off"". The choice between the two often depends on the desired level of formality.

What does "before taking off" imply?

The phrase ""before taking off"" typically implies a sequence of events where certain actions are completed or conditions are met before a departure, flight or launch.