beforehand

adverb or adjective

be·​fore·​hand bi-ˈfȯr-ˌhand 

bē-

1

a

: in anticipation

b

: in advance

2

: ahead of time : early

Synonyms

• early
• inopportunely
• precociously
• prematurely
• unseasonably

Examples of beforehand in a Sentence

if you arrive beforehand, we won't be entirely prepared yet

if you get ready beforehand, you won't have to rush at the last minute

Recent Examples on the Web

Using a tumble dryer can help reactivate the jacket's water-resistance, but Lewenhaupt recommends using low heat and checking the care instructions beforehand. —Katelyn Squiers, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 May 2025

The action was taken at a special Village Board meeting Monday, with a closed-door session taking place beforehand. —Mike Nolan, Chicago Tribune, 13 May 2025

Yet if team members weren’t consulted beforehand, the tool is seen as something being done to them rather than with them. —Benjamin Laker, Forbes.com, 12 May 2025

Some of the hikers had attempted CPR beforehand; however, he was pronounced dead at the scene, local outlet KTAR News reported. —Escher Walcott, People.com, 12 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for beforehand

• analysand
• misunderstand
• ampersand
• behindhand
• bottomland
• contraband
• countermand
• dixieland
• fairyland
• fatherland
• firebrand
• hinterland

Kids Definition

beforehand

adverb

be·​fore·​hand -ˌhand 

: ahead of time : in advance