prior to completing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "prior to completing" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that happened or was done before something else was completed. For example, "He collected data for the project prior to completing his report."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

degrees, before deciding to leave prior to completing my dissertation.

Columbia University

Prior to completing his PhD in Geochemistry from Keele University, Dale was involved in environmental education.

The Guardian

"Prior to completing the review, we won't speculate on any potential impact".

The New York Times

In the treatment group, the participants were guided through a 15-minute meditation prior to completing the tasks.

Harvard Business Review

In the control group, the participants watched a 15-minute video on stress-reduction prior to completing the tasks.

Harvard Business Review

Of the 51 participants, 22 (43.1%) dropped out of treatment prior to completing the full 12 session COPE protocol.

Addictive Behaviors

Participants were randomized to either a psychosocial stressor or nonstressful control task prior to completing two hypothetical behavioral hoarding paradigms.

Behavior Therapy

The exam can be taken prior to completing the required additional workshops.

Cornell University

Please complete initial Stanford Compliance screening to confirm eligibility prior to completing application below.

Stanford University

Candidates must submit an application portfolio for review prior to completing 50% of their graduate curriculum.

University of California, Berkeley

It is suggested that you consult with the project coordinator prior to completing the full proposal.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "prior to completing" when you want to clearly indicate the sequence of events, emphasizing that one action precedes the completion of another. For example, "Review the instructions "prior to completing" the application."

Common error

Don't use "prior to completing" when a simpler word like "before" is clearer and more concise. Overusing formal language can make your writing sound stilted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "prior to completing" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb or clause, indicating the timing of an action in relation to the completion of another action. Ludwig examples illustrate its use across varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

Academia

30%

News & Media

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "prior to completing" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that serves to establish temporal order, indicating that an action precedes the culmination of another. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and applicability across various domains, notably in science, academia, and news media. While effective, remember that more straightforward options like "before finishing" might enhance clarity in less formal contexts. To ensure its correct and effective usage, bear in mind its function, communicative purpose, and the register of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

before finishing

Simple substitution of 'completing' with 'finishing'.

previous to finishing

Synonymous with 'prior to completing' using 'previous' instead of 'prior'.

ahead of completion

Nominalization of 'completing', changing the structure.

in advance of finishing

Rephrasing with 'in advance of' to highlight anticipation.

before the completion of

More formal and emphasizes the completed state.

in anticipation of completing

Emphasizes the expectation of finishing the task.

shortly before finishing

Indicates that the prior action happens very close to finishing.

leading up to completing

Focuses on the process leading to completion.

until the task is done

Expresses the same sequence with 'until' focusing on the endpoint.

on the verge of completing

Implies near completion when the prior action occurs.

FAQs

How can I use "prior to completing" in a sentence?

You can use "prior to completing" to indicate that something must be done before finishing a particular task. For example, "Ensure all data is entered "prior to completing" the report."

Is there a less formal alternative to "prior to completing"?

Yes, you can use "before finishing" as a simpler and more direct alternative.

What's the difference between "prior to completing" and "after completing"?

"Prior to completing" indicates something happens before the completion of a task, while "after completing" means something happens once the task is finished.

Can I use "previous to completing" instead of "prior to completing"?

While "previous to completing" is grammatically correct, "prior to completing" is more common and slightly more formal. Consider your audience and the context when choosing between them.