Words / A1

bi-FOR/bɪˈfɔː/

One thing happens earlier than another: before. Brush your teeth before bed. You can put a time after it: before six, or a whole clause: before you leave. After is the opposite direction on the clock. Before the noun, you do not need “of.”

Meaning

Earlier than a time or event.

Examples

• “Wash your hands before dinner.”
• “Finish your work before lunch.”
• “I always lock the door before I go out.”

Good to know

before + time / event. Opposite: after.

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