prior commitments

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "prior commitments" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to obligations or responsibilities that were established before a certain point in time, often in the context of scheduling or availability. Example: "I cannot attend the meeting tomorrow due to prior commitments that I cannot reschedule."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

They viewed the prior commitments as something they were "committed" to - in just the way the poker player sees his bets as committing him.

Huffington Post

Roberts, the automobilist, begged off at Cheyenne, Wyo., citing prior commitments.

The New York Times

Mr. Spielberg sent a nice letter, begging off: prior commitments and all.

The New York Times - Arts

A lot of people were generally supportive but simply unable to get there due to geography or prior commitments.

The Guardian - Opinion

It will run for at least five episodes and maybe six if Mr. Armstrong can rearrange some prior commitments.

The New York Times

"We have all this logic of prior commitments and it's predicated on this sprawling pattern of growth," he said.

The New York Times

The Quinn team cited prior commitments in both cases, noting that the campaign trail could get hectic.

The New York Times

Bonds's lawyers asked United States District Judge Susan Illston on Monday to excuse Bonds from the hearing, saying he had prior commitments.

The New York Times - Sports

OPEC's president, Chakib Khelil, said the group needed to see how well producers were complying with their prior commitments to pare supplies before agreeing to a new cut.

The New York Times

Illnesses, the Asian financial crisis and prior commitments interrupted the filming, which dragged on for more than a year, testing everyone's patience.

The New York Times

And if Pat Sharp has prior commitments, the whole thing could just as easily be presided over by a gigantic staticky nylon tumbleweed instead.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When declining an invitation or request due to "prior commitments", be prepared to offer an alternative time or suggest someone else who might be available to fulfill the request. This shows you value the request despite your unavailability.

Common error

Don't assume your audience knows what your "prior commitments" are. If appropriate, provide a brief, professional explanation to avoid misunderstandings or the impression that you are being dismissive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "prior commitments" functions as a noun phrase. It typically serves as the object of a preposition (e.g., due to, because of) or as the reason for declining an invitation or explaining unavailability. As evidenced by Ludwig, it is a common way to refer to pre-existing engagements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Science

26%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "prior commitments" is a very common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to explain or justify an inability to participate in a new activity, as confirmed by Ludwig. Its register is generally neutral to professional, appearing frequently in news, science, and wiki sources. When using this phrase, it's advisable to be prepared to offer alternative solutions or explanations to avoid misunderstandings. Ludwig AI analysis underscores its versatile application across various contexts and its acceptance as standard English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

previous engagements

Focuses on social or professional obligations already scheduled.

pre-existing obligations

Highlights the fact that these obligations were in place before a certain point.

earlier obligations

Places more emphasis on the obligatory nature of the commitments.

earlier arrangements

Emphasizes the scheduling aspect of the commitments.

pre-existing appointments

Similar to pre-arranged plans but more formal, implying a professional setting.

scheduled duties

Refers to tasks or responsibilities that have been formally scheduled.

existing responsibilities

Highlights the ongoing nature of the obligations.

prearranged plans

Focuses on the planning aspect of the commitments, implying less formality.

standing appointments

Implies regular or recurring commitments.

fixed schedules

Highlights commitments that are not flexible or easily changed.

FAQs

How can I politely decline an invitation due to "prior commitments"?

Express gratitude for the invitation and explain you are unable to attend because of "prior commitments". Offering an alternative date or a brief explanation, if appropriate, can soften the declination.

What's a more formal way to say "prior commitments"?

In formal contexts, you can use phrases such as "previous engagements" or "pre-existing obligations".

Is it appropriate to ask for details about someone's "prior commitments"?

It depends on your relationship and the context. In most professional settings, it's best to avoid asking for specific details unless it directly impacts a shared project or responsibility. A simple "I understand" is usually sufficient.

When is it best to use "prior commitments" instead of "previous obligations"?

While both are similar, "prior commitments" often suggests a broader range of scheduled activities, while "previous obligations" might imply a more formal or mandatory duty.