prior correspondence

USAGE SUMMARY

"prior correspondence" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to refer to written correspondence/communication that has happened before the current moment. For example, "I received a reply from the company in response to my prior correspondence."

✓ Grammatically correct

Formal & Business

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"In our prior correspondence, we clearly and repeatedly stated our flexibility as to both value and form of consideration, yet you have continued to refuse even to discuss our offers," Mr. McGlade wrote in the letter.

The New York Times

Its finest moments are its most recognisable: the strained protocol of Trevor's exchanges with stroppy Gabriel ("If I could just finish, Trevor, because I have been interrupted already... ..); the circulated email that reveals an embarrassing prior correspondence; the laptop slideshow of last month's Robin Hood away-day.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

They had presumed that in the event of Federal dissolution they would be first in line for independence without major adjustments to the 1961 constitution, an impression confirmed to them by prior intergovernmental correspondence, particularly the oral promises they claimed to have received from Butler.

Wikipedia

Thus, the methods generally involve comparisons without any prior specified correspondence between residues.

Algorithms for Molecular Biology

Probe sets with missing values were removed from the dataset prior to correspondence analysis.

BMC Genomics

Two methods are proposed to solve a partial matching problem with scaling effects and no prior information on correspondence or the rigid body transformation involved.

Graphical Models

Some of the correspondence prior to 1859 pertains to Cluskey's duties as postmaster.

University of Chicago

Mr McGleenan claimed it was "remarkable" that the department and the minister would "simply ignore" correspondence prior to the formal commencement of legal proceedings.

BBC

'It is a real pleasure to hear that a Colleague so far away is interested in the same problems you are working at and that he finds one's little writings may be of some use.' Thus began Prior's voluminous correspondence with logicians the world over.

SEP

(After that mutual friend gaffe on my first Tinder date, I've taken to reviewing all correspondence prior to each meet 'n' greet).

Huffington Post

They also identified themselves as Graikoi (Greek: Γραικοί, "Greeks"); the ethnonym was used habitually for self-referential purposes except in official Byzantine political correspondence prior to the Fourth Crusade of 1204.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referencing "prior correspondence", always be specific about the date or subject of the previous communication to provide clear context.

Common error

Avoid assuming the recipient remembers the "prior correspondence". Briefly summarize the key points to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "prior correspondence" functions as a noun phrase that modifies the noun "correspondence". It indicates that the correspondence in question occurred before the current time or situation. Ludwig confirms its proper usage in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

22%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "prior correspondence" is a grammatically correct and understandable phrase used to reference previous communication, most commonly in news, science, and formal business contexts. While not overly frequent, it's a clear and concise way to refer to earlier exchanges. Ludwig confirms its validity and provides examples of its usage. When using the phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the details of the referenced communication. Consider alternatives like "previous communication" or "earlier emails" depending on the specific form of correspondence being referenced. Remember to avoid assuming the recipient recalls the details of the "prior correspondence" without a brief reminder.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

prior communications

Formal version to mean earlier instances of communication

previous communication

Emphasizes the act of communicating before the current time.

earlier communication

Highlights that the communication took place at an earlier point.

preceding correspondence

Highlights that the correspondence came immediately before the present one.

past communication

Focuses on the communication as something that has already happened.

prior written exchange

Highlights the fact that this correspondence has been documented.

previous letters

Specifically refers to letters exchanged before the present time.

earlier emails

Specifies emails as the form of communication in the past.

earlier exchange

Broader and less formal referring to the act of exchanging communication.

historical correspondence

Suggests a correspondence of some importance or age.

FAQs

How can I use "prior correspondence" in a sentence?

You can use "prior correspondence" to refer to previous communications, like in the sentence: "Please refer to our prior correspondence for details about the agreement."

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

A more formal alternative to "prior correspondence" is "prior communications", which is suitable for business or academic contexts.

What can I say instead of "prior correspondence" in an email?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases such as "previous communication" or "earlier emails" to refer to "prior correspondence".

Is it appropriate to use "prior correspondence" in academic writing?

Yes, "prior correspondence" is appropriate for academic writing when referencing previous exchanges or documented communications. It maintains a professional and clear tone.