prior reading

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "prior reading" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to any reading material that was completed before a certain point in time or before a specific event. Example: "Before we begin the discussion, please refer to the prior reading assigned for this week."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

*The University of Michigan will release its preliminary consumer sentiment reading for April, which is expected to reach 58.5, slightly ahead of the 57.3 prior reading.

Forbes

Initial codes were agreed a priori based on the research team's knowledge and prior reading.

BMC Health Services Research

Initial codes were set a priori based on the research team's knowledge and prior reading.

BMC Health Services Research

In TBL, small groups in a large class setting do prior reading to take tests and solve problems collaboratively with input from a content expert facilitator.

BMC Medical Education

In The Abyss Beyond Dreams (Macmillan, £20), the first volume of a duology that will conclude with Night Without Stars, Peter F Hamilton skilfully fuses his Void and Commonwealth series, though prior reading isn't necessary to appreciate this standalone story.

The Guardian - Books

In The Abyss Beyond Dreams (Macmillan, £20), the first volume of a duology that will conclude with Night Without Stars, Peter F Hamilton skilfully fuses his Void and Commonwealth series, though prior reading isn't necessary to appreciate this standalone story.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

Early in 1951 Prior read von Wright's article 'Deontic Logic', and the penultimate chapter of The Craft contains a cameo discussion of this topic.

SEP

In ChIP-seq assays the reconstruction of factor binding/chromatin modification profiles is currently performed by applying a computational elongation of the sequenced reads prior read-count intensities assessment.

BMC Genomics

Prior to reading 'The Black Dahlia', I was a regular little literary snob.

Independent

But prior to reading the study, I didn't know they could text.

The New Yorker

Prior to reading the report, physicians might assume the phenomenon to be nothing more than a joke.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In academic and professional writing, "prior reading" is best used when referring to specific texts or materials assigned or recommended for preparation.

Common error

Avoid using "prior reading" in casual conversation or informal writing where simpler alternatives like "read before" or "already read" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

Adjectival noun phrase that modifies another noun, indicating something done or existing before something else. Ludwig states that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

43%

News & Media

36%

Academia

21%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "prior reading" is a grammatically sound and usable term, particularly within academic, scientific, and news-related contexts. Ludwig highlights its correctness and utility. While not exceedingly common, it effectively conveys the concept of materials reviewed beforehand. When aiming for simpler language, consider alternatives such as "previous reading" or "earlier reading". Keep in mind that the level of formality and context will significantly impact the most suitable choice. It's best to contextualize to what exactly the "prior reading" is in reference to.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

previous reading

Focuses on the reading that immediately preceded the current one.

earlier reading

Highlights that the reading occurred at some unspecified earlier time.

preliminary reading

Emphasizes that the reading serves as an initial introduction or preparation.

advance reading

Indicates that the reading was done ahead of time, often in anticipation of a discussion or task.

background reading

Suggests that the reading provides context or foundational knowledge for a specific topic.

pre-reading assignment

Specifically refers to reading material assigned before a class or meeting.

required reading

Implies that the reading is mandatory or essential for a particular purpose.

initial study

Focuses on the first instance of studying related materials.

preparatory study

Highlights reading done in preparation for a specific task or event.

pre-existing knowledge

Refers to general knowledge acquired from past reading experiences.

FAQs

What does "prior reading" mean?

"Prior reading" refers to materials someone has read before a specific event, discussion, or task. It implies that the reading has already taken place and provides context or background information.

What can I say instead of "prior reading"?

You can use alternatives like "previous reading", "earlier reading", or "background reading" depending on the specific context.

How is "prior reading" different from "background reading"?

"Prior reading" generally refers to any reading done beforehand, while "background reading" specifically provides context or foundational knowledge on a particular subject. The first is more general, and the second is more purposeful.

Is "prior reading" formal or informal?

"Prior reading" is generally considered more formal and is commonly used in academic, scientific, and professional contexts. In informal settings, phrases like "read before" or "already read" might be more suitable.