prior to start

USAGE SUMMARY

'prior to start' is correct and usable in written English.
It is a phrase typically used when referring to something that must be done before something else begins. For example: "There are a few administrative tasks that need to be completed prior to start."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Guest speakers will be posted prior to start of class.

Stanford University

Course offered in August prior to start of fall quarter.

Stanford University

Check-in will begin one hour prior to start time.

Columbia University

Further, designs must be substantially completed prior to start of production.

The Future of Nuclear Power

Vapour bubbles have been found to exist inside the nozzle prior to start of injection.

Fuel

Mice were fasted for 6 to 8 h prior to start of the imaging session.

EJNMMI Research

All the patients provided written informed consent prior to start of the study.

Clinical and Translational Medicine

Baseline [18F]FLT-PET/CT was performed within a week prior to start of chemotherapy.

EJNMMI Research

Mice were fasted for 6 8 hours prior to start of imaging session [27].

EJNMMI Research

Gates will open one hour prior to start time for all games.

Johns Hopkins University

Older males may be used if discussed with core prior to start of rederivation.

Duke University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "prior to start", ensure that the subsequent action or event is clearly defined. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "prior to start" in overly complex sentences where a simpler phrasing like "before starting" would suffice. Clarity is key in effective communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "prior to start" functions as a prepositional phrase indicating a time relationship. It specifies that something must happen before the commencement of an event or activity. Ludwig provides numerous examples across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

60%

Academia

30%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

News & Media

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "prior to start" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression used to denote that something should be done before a specific event or action commences. As affirmed by Ludwig AI, its usage is correct and acceptable in written English. Predominantly observed in scientific and academic contexts, it establishes a formal tone. While alternatives like "before starting" exist, "prior to start" maintains a distinct emphasis on sequence. Therefore, when clarity and formality are paramount, employing "prior to start" proves highly effective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

before the commencement

Replaces "start" with the more formal "commencement".

ahead of the beginning

Substitutes "prior" with "ahead" and uses "beginning" instead of "start".

previous to the initiation

Employs "previous" in place of "prior" and "initiation" for "start" making it more formal.

preceding the outset

Substitutes "prior" with "preceding" and "start" with "outset", increasing the formality.

in advance of the kickoff

Uses "in advance" to replace "prior" and "kickoff" as a more informal alternative to "start".

leading up to the launch

Replaces "prior" with "leading up to" and "start" with "launch".

in anticipation of the commencement

Adds a sense of expectation or preparation using "in anticipation of".

before it begins

Simplifies the structure, making it more direct and less formal.

on the eve of the start

Emphasizes the time immediately before the start using "on the eve of".

earlier than the starting point

Provides a more literal and descriptive alternative.

FAQs

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

You can use "prior to start" to indicate the timing of an action that must occur before something else begins. For example: "All data must be reviewed "prior to start" of the experiment."

What are some alternatives to "prior to start"?

Some alternatives to "prior to start" include "before the start", "ahead of the beginning", or "previous to the initiation", depending on the desired level of formality.

Which is more formal, "prior to start" or "before starting"?

"Prior to start" tends to be more formal than "before starting". The choice depends on the context and your desired tone.

Is it correct to say "prior to starting" instead of "prior to start"?

While "prior to start" is grammatically correct, "prior to starting" is also acceptable and often used. However, "prior to start" is more concise.