previously existing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "previously existing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that was in existence before a certain point in time or event. Example: "The report highlighted the challenges faced by previously existing systems in adapting to new technologies."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Likewise, the existence of depression can exacerbate previously existing cognitive difficulties.

Clinical interventions in aging

The quotes in question either did not exist, were unintentional misquotations, or represented improper combinations of previously existing quotes.

The Guardian

Both works are based on previously existing material.

The Guardian - Music

He had suffered from a previously existing heart condition.

The Guardian - Music

It shook and shattered the whole previously existing social system".

The New York Times

His pictures often involve the layering of previously existing images.

The New York Times

In 2014, 1tn photographs were taken, more than a quarter of all previously existing photos.

The Guardian - Books

In adapting and cutting down a previously existing libretto, however, Handel reduced the narrative to near incoherence in places.

The Guardian - Music

In fact, it is even more egregious than simply breaking a promise, because it actually restricts current and previously existing whistle-blower protections".

The New York Times

Researchers first grew the virus in embryonic lung cells, which were later cloned and grown in two previously existing cell lines.

The New York Times

It has a curious provenance, previously existing as a tech-demo shown when the original DS launched, but only now has it acquired full-game status.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing changes or updates, use "previously existing" to clearly differentiate between the old and new states. For example, 'The new software integrates seamlessly with previously existing systems'.

Common error

Avoid using "previously existing" when a simple past tense would suffice. For example, instead of 'The previously existing building was demolished', it's often clearer to say 'The old building was demolished'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "previously existing" functions as a pre-modifying adjective that describes a noun by indicating that it existed at an earlier time. It clarifies that something was present before a specific event, change, or current state. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "previously existing" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to describe something that existed before a particular point in time. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage. It appears frequently in various contexts, including science, news, and formal business settings. While alternatives like "pre-existing" or "formerly present" can be used, "previously existing" provides clarity and emphasis in differentiating between past and present states, and is a good choice in formal writings. Avoid overuse in contexts where simpler past tense constructions would suffice for conciseness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pre-existing

A shorter, hyphenated form conveying the same meaning with a slightly more formal tone.

prior existing

Uses 'prior' instead of 'previously' to indicate something that existed before.

formerly present

Replaces 'existing' with 'present' to emphasize a state of being at an earlier time.

previously available

Focuses on accessibility rather than pure existence, suitable when discussing resources or opportunities.

already in place

Highlights the establishment of something beforehand, suggesting readiness or preparation.

earlier established

Emphasizes the act of setting up or founding something at a prior time.

antecedent

A more formal term referring to something that precedes another in time or order.

past

A simple way to refer to something of the past

historical

Refers to something from the past, often emphasizing its significance or relevance to history.

long-standing

Highlights the duration of something's existence, suggesting it has been around for a considerable time.

FAQs

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

Use "previously existing" to describe something that was present before a certain point in time or a change occurred. For example, "The updated policy replaced all "prior existing" regulations."

What are some alternatives to "previously existing"?

You can use alternatives such as "pre-existing", "formerly present", or "already in place" depending on the specific context.

Is "previously existing" redundant?

While "previously" implies existence, using "previously existing" can add emphasis and clarity, especially when distinguishing between past and current states. It's a matter of stylistic choice and context.

What's the difference between "previously existing" and "long-standing"?

"Previously existing" simply indicates something existed before, while "long-standing" implies it has existed for a considerable amount of time. For example, a "previously existing" agreement might have been recent, while a "long-standing" tradition has been around for many years.