以前

izen
ja
en
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before, previously, formerly
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/iꜜzeɴ/
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The time before now or before another stated point.
Practice using 以前 in conversation until it feels natural

Examples

  • 結婚以前は東京に住んでいた。
    I lived in Tokyo before getting married.
  • 以前より元気になった。
    I feel better than before.
  • 以前の住所を教えてください。
    Please tell me your previous address.
  • 彼には以前会ったことがある。
    I have met him before.
  • この建物は戦争以前からある。
    This building has existed since before the war.

Similar words

かつて
昔
前
従前

Meanings

Before a reference time

noun
time
neutral
A period earlier than now or earlier than a named event, also used for something from that earlier period.

Examples

  • 彼には以前会ったことがある。
    I have met him before.
  • 以前の住所を教えてください。
    Please tell me your previous address.
  • 結婚以前は東京に住んでいた。
    I lived in Tokyo before getting married.
  • 以前より元気になった。
    I feel better than before.
  • この建物は戦争以前からある。
    This building has existed since before the war.

Similar words

前
かつて
昔
従前

Etymology

Literally “before this point”: 以 marks a boundary and 前 means “before”.

FAQ

What does 以前 mean?

The time before now or before another stated point.

How do you read 以前?

It is read いぜん, romanized izen.

Can 以前 mean “previous”?

Yes, as in a previous address.

What is the opposite of 以前?

以後 means from a point onward.

Can 以前 refer to an event?

Yes, as in the period before a marriage or war.

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