previous trials

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "previous trials" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to earlier experiments, tests, or attempts in a particular context, such as scientific research or legal proceedings. Example: "The results of the previous trials indicate a significant improvement in the treatment's effectiveness."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Three previous trials have collapsed.

Independent

Transcripts from the previous trials are missing.

The New York Times

Modi, then 24, had done two previous trials with Parexel.

The Guardian

His convictions in two previous trials were overturned.

The New York Times

Unlike the two previous trials, yesterday's hearing was not televised.

The Guardian

Noninferiority trials are based upon experience acquired with previous trials.

Epilepsy Research

At each of Mr. Schwarz's previous trials the jurors have been anonymous.

The New York Times

Other terrorist manuals have been uncovered over the years, and even introduced at previous trials.

The New York Times

After Norman's previous trials and tribulations at Augusta, he probably felt he deserved a little luck.

The Guardian - Sport

In two previous trials, Mr. Schwarz was convicted of participating in the assault and obstructing justice.

The New York Times

Mr. Gotti insisted at each of his previous trials that he had left the Mafia life.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to "previous trials", ensure the context clearly indicates which specific trials are being referenced to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify dates, case names, or other identifying details.

Common error

Avoid assuming that all readers are familiar with the "previous trials" being discussed. Always provide sufficient background information or references to ensure clarity, especially in formal writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "previous trials" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as an adjective modifier of another noun. Ludwig confirms that this phrase is indeed correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

37%

Academia

22%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "previous trials" is grammatically sound and frequently employed to denote earlier attempts, experiments, or legal proceedings. According to Ludwig, it is usable in written English. Predominantly found in news, scientific, and academic contexts, it serves to provide essential background or comparison points. While highly versatile, ensuring clarity by specifying the referenced trials is crucial. Alternatives like "prior trials" or "earlier trials" can be used for stylistic variation. By considering its function, purpose, and register, writers can effectively integrate this phrase into their work.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

prior trials

Replaces "previous" with its synonym "prior", maintaining the same meaning and context.

earlier trials

Substitutes "previous" with "earlier", indicating a point in time before the current trial.

past trials

Uses "past" instead of "previous" to denote trials that have already occurred.

preceding trials

Employs "preceding" to specify trials that came before the present one.

former trials

Replaces "previous" with "former", implying trials that existed or happened in the past.

historical trials

Uses "historical" to emphasize that the trials belong to the past and may be of historical significance.

concluded trials

Focuses on the completion of the trials, indicating they have been finished.

completed trials

Highlights the fact that the trials have been brought to an end.

trials conducted earlier

Rephrases the concept to emphasize the action of conducting trials at an earlier time.

antecedent trials

Uses "antecedent" to indicate trials that precede the current one in order or time.

FAQs

How can I use "previous trials" in a sentence?

You can use "previous trials" to refer to earlier experiments, tests, or legal proceedings. For example: "The results of the "previous trials" indicate a significant improvement."

What's a good alternative to "previous trials"?

Alternatives include "prior trials", "earlier trials", or "past trials", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "previous trials"?

Use "previous trials" when you need to refer to experiments, tests, or legal proceedings that have already taken place, especially when comparing them to current or future ones.

Is "previous trials" formal or informal language?

"Previous trials" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although it's more commonly found in academic, scientific, and news-related writing.