previously encountered

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "previously encountered" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It means that something has been encountered or experienced before. Example: The students were struggling with the new math concept, but it was a review of a previously encountered topic.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It's unlike anything I've previously encountered".

The Guardian

The zigzag journey through previously encountered worlds is cannily designed.

The New York Times - Books

This combination has not been previously encountered in South Australia.

Forensic Science International

"Interesting?" Really, this was passive aggression on a level I'd not previously encountered.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Hillary and Bill Clinton have previously encountered marital and legal problems.

The New York Times

But some of the puzzles are more difficult than any I've previously encountered in the series.

The New York Times - Tech

One of the prizes is Eleanor Bold, previously encountered in The Warden, now coveted by Slope.

The Guardian - Books

He introduced Cockroft to a world she had never previously encountered.

The Guardian - Sport

It is the association of a physical object with something previously encountered or experienced.

The New York Times

Recognition memory involves classifying a stimulus as novel (new) or previously encountered (old).

Nature

Some visitors may find Diller & Scofidio's media-based projects derivative of work previously encountered in contemporary art museums.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms like "previously experienced" or "previously known" to add variety to your writing, especially when repeating the phrase within a short span.

Common error

While "previously encountered" is grammatically correct, avoid overusing it in formal contexts. Opt for more sophisticated synonyms to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "previously encountered" typically functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It describes something that has been experienced or come across at an earlier time. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

43%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "previously encountered" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that describes something experienced or known before. Ludwig's analysis and the numerous examples confirm its wide applicability across various contexts, including News & Media and Science. While versatile, it's important to use it judiciously, opting for more sophisticated synonyms in highly formal writing to avoid repetition. The phrase functions primarily as an adjective, providing context by linking present information with past experiences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

previously experienced

Focuses on the personal experience aspect rather than a simple meeting or finding.

previously known

Emphasizes prior knowledge or awareness of something.

previously met

Specifically refers to having encountered a person before.

previously faced

Highlights the aspect of confronting or dealing with something in the past.

previously observed

Focuses on having seen or noticed something before.

previously identified

Emphasizes the act of recognizing or distinguishing something earlier.

previously used

Highlights prior utilization or application of something.

previously detected

Focuses on having discovered or noticed something through specific means.

previously undergone

Indicates a prior experience of a process or procedure.

previously witnessed

Emphasizes having seen something happen in the past.

FAQs

How can I use "previously encountered" in a sentence?

You can use "previously encountered" to describe something you have experienced or come across before, like: "The students were struggling with the new math concept, but it was a review of a topic "previously encountered"".

What are some alternatives to "previously encountered"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "previously experienced", "previously known", or "previously met".

Is it better to say "previously encountered" or "formerly encountered"?

"Previously encountered" is generally preferred because it is more common and versatile. "Formerly encountered" is less frequently used and might sound overly formal.

What's the difference between "previously encountered" and "newly encountered"?

"Previously encountered" refers to something that has been experienced before, while "newly encountered" indicates something that is being experienced for the first time.