previous and new

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "previous and new" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to two different sets of information or to a comparison between old and recent events or items. For example, "We compared the previous and new versions of the software to assess the changes."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I photographed the previous and new product bottles and labels.

Cornell University

The ensuing size effect on fatigue lifetimes is simulated using both the previous and new forms.

International Journal of Fatigue

The previous and new advisors should also be cc'ed on the email so everyone remains informed of the change.

University of California, Berkeley

The previous and new advisors should also be CCed on the email so everyone remains informed of the change.

University of California, Berkeley

The findings build on both previous and new research implicating the prefrontal cortex in aggression and violence.

MIT Technology Review

I often find successful social innovators seem to find answers in what works, in previous and new solutions, rather than in problems!

The Guardian

Most projects involve relocating residents to new, more peripheral districts of the city, which causes social isolation and certain socio-spatial incompatibilities between their previous and new habitats.

Cities

A summary of our present understanding of the fundamentals behind this technique is presented, in view of previous and new experimental results and theoretical predictions.

Surface and Coatings Technology

Verification and validation against previous and new physical measurements, which remain an essential element of any sound design, are being carried out.

Engineering

In thinking about the re-emergence of a black liberatory politics, it is important to create spaces that allow for previous and new generations of activists to meet, conspire and organise.

The Guardian - Opinion

He continued his underground life for another year and a half, changing roles, always a target for informers and often saved at the last minute by previous and new protectors.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing datasets, ensure clarity by specifying the source and context for both the "previous and new" data points to provide a complete picture.

Common error

Avoid ambiguity by clearly indicating the timeframe or sequence when discussing "previous and new" elements; otherwise, the comparison might become muddled.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "previous and new" functions as a compound adjective modifying a noun. It's used to compare or contrast something from the past with its more recent counterpart, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

46%

News & Media

28%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "previous and new" is a versatile expression used to draw comparisons between past and present states, versions, or data sets. According to Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable across various contexts. Usage is particularly common in scientific, news, and academic writing, indicating its neutrality and broad appeal. To ensure clarity, always specify what exactly is being compared when using this phrase. By avoiding vague references and providing context, you can effectively communicate changes and differences over time. Ludwig's examples confirm its widespread use and acceptability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Former and current

This emphasizes a contrast between a past state and the existing one.

Past and present

This focuses on time, contrasting earlier times with the current moment.

Old and modern

This contrasts traditional or aged elements with contemporary ones.

Existing and innovative

This opposes established items or ideas with novel ones.

Legacy and emerging

This highlights what is inherited versus what is just appearing.

Traditional and contemporary

This contrasts customary practices with modern approaches.

Preceding and subsequent

This emphasizes a sequence of events, one following the other.

Earlier and later

This focuses on a temporal sequence without specific connotations of tradition or modernity.

Then and now

This simplistically compares a situation at two different points in time.

Outdated and cutting-edge

This highlights the difference between something obsolete and something very advanced.

FAQs

How can I use "previous and new" in a sentence?

You can use "previous and new" to compare different states or versions, such as "The study compares the "previous and new" data sets to identify trends".

What is a good alternative to "previous and new"?

Depending on the context, consider alternatives like "former and current", "past and present", or "old and modern".

Is it better to say "previous and new" or "old and new"?

The choice between "previous and new" and "old and new" depends on the context. "Previous and new" is often used to refer to updates or versions, while "old and new" refers more generally to age or condition.

How do I ensure clarity when using "previous and new" in my writing?

Always specify what you are comparing. For instance, instead of saying "the "previous and new" results", specify "the previous year's results and the new quarterly results".