what was previously

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "what was previously" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to something that existed or occurred before a certain point in time or context. Example: "The report outlines what was previously discussed in the meeting last week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Discovery reveals what was previously unknown.

Stanford University

What was previously troublesome reveals its secrets.

The New York Times - Arts

This is much more complex than what was previously thought".

University of California, Berkeley

What was previously considered unsociable is now "sociable".

The Guardian

These trends in mechanics and degradation mimicked what was previously observed in the bulk polymers.

Acta Biomaterialia

It showed that what was previously thought impossible was actually quite realizable.

Princeton University

This process eliminates any trace of what was previously printed on the poster, leaving it blank.

Harvard University

Please note that the schedule has been updated from what was previously advertised.

Harvard University

In 2008, Congress renumbered what was previously §602(a) as §602(a)(1).

Harvard University

These results are consistent with what was previously observed in PEG400-based systems doped with δ-MgCl2.

Electrochimica Acta

He turns subtext into text, makes explicit what was previously implied.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "what was previously" to clearly indicate a change or contrast between a past state and the current situation. This is especially useful in academic and professional writing where clarity is paramount.

Common error

Avoid using "what was previously" in very casual conversation or writing, as it can sound overly formal or pretentious. Simpler alternatives like "before" or "earlier" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what was previously" functions as an adverbial modifier, adding information about the timing or previous state of something. As Ludwig AI highlights, it often introduces a contrast or change, making it useful for clarifying updates or shifts in understanding.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "what was previously" is a versatile phrase used to denote a past state or understanding, often in contrast to the present. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide applicability. Its neutral to formal register makes it suitable for various writing contexts, particularly academic, scientific, and professional communications. While very common, be mindful of potential overuse in casual settings, and consider simpler alternatives when appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

what once was

Emphasizes a past state that no longer exists, focusing on the change over time.

what had been

Highlights a past condition or state, often implying a contrast with the present situation.

formerly

A concise adverb indicating a previous state or condition.

in the past

A general reference to a time before the present.

beforehand

Refers to something done or existing at an earlier time.

in earlier times

Implies a more distant past, often used in historical contexts.

prior to this

Indicates something that occurred before a specific event or point in time.

up until now

Focuses on the contrast between the past and the present moment.

heretofore

A more formal and somewhat archaic way of saying 'until now'.

in days gone by

Evokes a sense of nostalgia or a more distant past.

FAQs

How can I use "what was previously" in a sentence?

You can use "what was previously" to introduce information or ideas that have changed or been updated. For example: "The schedule has been updated from "what was previously advertised"."

What are some alternatives to "what was previously"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "what had been", "formerly", or "in the past" instead of "what was previously".

Is "what was previously" formal or informal?

"What was previously" tends to be more formal and is often found in academic, scientific, or professional writing. In casual conversation, simpler alternatives might be more appropriate.

How does "what was previously" differ from "what is currently"?

"What was previously" refers to a past state, while "what is currently" refers to the present state. Using both in a sentence highlights the contrast between the two: "What was previously unthinkable is now a reality we must urgently confront.