before we proceed

USAGE SUMMARY

'before we proceed' is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used to introduce the idea that something is about to happen or be discussed. For example, "Before we proceed, I'd like to thank everyone in attendance today."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Before we proceed, a confession.

The New York Times

Before we proceed, however, a few caveats are in order.

Harvard Business Review

Before we proceed as scholars, let us first be citizens.

The New York Times

"How long will this be?" she asks testily, before we proceed upstairs.

The New York Times - Magazine

Before we proceed, there's a number I want you to remember: $50 trillion.

The Washington Post

Before we proceed any further, let us concur that all prejudices are bad – amirite, kids?

The Guardian - Opinion

"We're interpreting the data before we proceed," one of them said.

The New Yorker

Before we proceed, I wish briefly to review why we are here tonight.

The New York Times

"Before we proceed, get your hat and coat and put them where you can watch them".

The New Yorker

As soon as an episode completed, cuttlefish is placed static at the start point before we proceed the next episode.

Nature

It's also an issue that has got serious moral implications, and our nation must think carefully before we proceed".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the level of formality of your audience. While generally acceptable, "before we proceed" might be replaced with a more formal alternative like "prior to continuing" in highly formal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "before we proceed" when you actually mean to indicate a simultaneous or subsequent action. It should only be used to introduce something that logically precedes the next step.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "before we proceed" functions as an adverbial phrase introducing a temporal clause. It indicates that the action in the main clause will occur after the condition stated in the temporal clause is met. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

38%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "before we proceed" is a grammatically sound and versatile phrase used to introduce a necessary preliminary step or condition before continuing. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's appropriate for diverse contexts, though more formal options exist. Its function is to signal transitions, clarify prerequisites, and provide structure to communications, as evidenced by its widespread use in news, science, and academic writing. Remember to consider the level of formality required and use it to logically set up what follows.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

before we move on

Commonly used to transition between topics or steps.

before going forward

Slightly less formal, focusing on the action of moving ahead.

prior to continuing

More formal alternative, emphasizing the temporal sequence.

we must first

Direct and emphatic way to introduce a necessary preliminary action.

preliminary to that

More academic or formal, suitable for scholarly writing.

let's first consider

Shifts focus to the act of deliberation or examination before action.

at the outset

Suggests addressing something at the very beginning.

let's clarify first

Emphasizes the need for clarification before further discussion.

first, let's address

Highlights addressing a specific issue as a necessary precursor.

initially

Briefly indicates the first step or consideration.

FAQs

How can I use "before we proceed" in a sentence?

"Before we proceed", you can use it to introduce a necessary piece of information or a preliminary step before continuing with a discussion or action. For example: "Before we proceed, let's review the budget."

What are some alternatives to "before we proceed"?

You can use alternatives like "prior to continuing", "before going forward", or "first let's address" depending on the specific context.

Is "before we proceed" formal or informal?

"Before we proceed" is generally considered neutral in tone, suitable for both professional and academic settings. However, for highly formal contexts, alternatives like "prior to continuing" might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "before we proceed" and "before we begin"?

"Before we proceed" implies that there is an ongoing process or discussion that will continue after the preliminary matter is addressed. "Before we begin" suggests that something is about to start. The choice depends on whether the action is a continuation or a commencement.