prior
adjective OPAL W
/ˈpraɪə(r)/
/ˈpraɪər/
[only before noun] (formal)- happening or existing before something else or before a particular time
先前的；较早的；在前的 - Although not essential, some prior knowledge of statistics is desirable.
统计学的知识虽非必要，但最好是学过一点。 - This information must not be disclosed without prior written consent.
未事先征得书面许可，此消息不得泄露。 - Visits are by prior arrangement.
参观需要事先安排。 - Please give us prior notice if you need an evening meal.
需用晚餐者，请预先通知我们。 - She will be unable to attend because of a prior engagement.
因事先有别的安排，她将不能出席。
- Although not essential, some prior knowledge of statistics is desirable.
- already existing and therefore more important
优先的；占先的；较重要的 - They have a prior claim to the property.
他们有权优先获得该处房产。
- They have a prior claim to the property.
- prior tobefore something
在…前面的 - during the week prior to the meeting
在开会前的一周内
- during the week prior to the meeting
词源adjective early 18th cent.: from Latin, literally ‘former, elder’, related to prae ‘before’.