preceding sentence

USAGE SUMMARY

"preceding sentence" is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used to refer to the sentence that appears immediately before it. For example: "I have many years of experience in this field. As the preceding sentence suggests, I believe I am well-suited for this job."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The Secretary shall consult with other appropriate Federal agencies to implement the preceding sentence.

Cornell University

The preceding sentence shall not apply to the extent that section 6621 d) applies.

Cornell University

The preceding sentence shall not apply if the case is dismissed.

Cornell University

Any increase under the preceding sentence shall be rounded to the nearest multiple of $1,000.

Cornell University

The preceding sentence shall apply without regard to whether the DISC exists after December 31 , 1984

Cornell University

Not more than $4,631,000 of such amounts may be designated under the preceding sentence.

Cornell University

The preceding sentence applies only if the understatement in the carryback year is substantial.

Cornell University

The preceding sentence does not require a handrail extension which is itself a hazard.

Cornell University

The preceding sentence shall not apply if the individual elects not to have such sentence apply.

Cornell University

However, the preceding sentence does not require a handrail extension which is itself a hazard.

Cornell University

A fiduciary may be removed for a breach referred to in the preceding sentence.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "preceding sentence", ensure there's no ambiguity about which sentence you're referencing. If complexity arises, consider rephrasing for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "preceding sentence" if several sentences have intervened or if the sentence is complex. Instead, briefly restate the relevant portion to refresh the reader's memory.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "preceding sentence" functions as a referential marker, pointing the reader or listener back to a specific statement made earlier in the text or conversation. It serves to connect ideas and build coherence within a discourse.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

51%

News & Media

29%

Science

13%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "preceding sentence" is a common and grammatically sound way to refer back to the sentence immediately before the current one. According to Ludwig, the phrase is frequently used in academic, news, and scientific writing. While straightforward, it's crucial to ensure clarity when using it, as ambiguity can arise if the referenced sentence is not immediately obvious. Consider alternatives like "previous sentence" or "aforementioned sentence" for stylistic variation, but be mindful of maintaining precision. Ensuring readers can easily identify the intended reference is key to effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

immediately preceding sentence

Adds emphasis to the proximity of the referred sentence, making it clear it's the one directly before.

previous sentence

Replaces "preceding" with "previous", offering a direct synonym with minimal change in meaning.

foregoing sentence

A more formal synonym for "preceding sentence", often used in legal or academic writing.

aforementioned sentence

More formal, indicating a sentence already referred to earlier in the text.

sentence before this one

A more explicit and less formal way of referring to the preceding sentence.

sentence above

Uses a spatial metaphor, indicating the sentence's position directly before the current one.

earlier sentence

Similar to "previous sentence", but can refer to a sentence further back than the immediately preceding one.

the sentence just mentioned

Highlights the recent mention of the sentence, implying it was discussed recently.

sentence in question

Refers to a specific sentence that is currently under discussion.

prior statement

Broader term, encompassing sentences or parts of sentences, and indicating information presented earlier.

FAQs

How can I use "preceding sentence" in a sentence?

Use "preceding sentence" to refer back to a statement made directly before the current one. For example, "The data shows a clear correlation. As the "preceding sentence" indicates, further research is needed."

What are some alternatives to "preceding sentence"?

You can use alternatives like "previous sentence", "sentence above", or "aforementioned sentence" depending on the context.

Is it ever incorrect to use "preceding sentence"?

It's not grammatically incorrect, but using "preceding sentence" can be confusing if the reference is not immediately clear. In those cases, rephrasing the original statement is better.

What's the difference between "preceding sentence" and "following sentence"?

"Preceding sentence" refers to the sentence that comes before the current one, while "following sentence" refers to the sentence that comes after.