〜以前

Before ~; Prior to ~

1. Overview

「〜以前」 is a grammatical structure used to express a time frame, indicating a period before a specific event or situation occurs. It is often used to narrate or recall past events or to set temporal conditions.

2. Structure

• Grammar Structure:

  • Noun + 以前
  • Verb (dictionary form) + 以前
  • Adjective (plain form) + 以前

• Explanation:

  • 「〜以前」 means "before" a certain event or time, emphasizing the chronological order of situations.

3. Usage Explanation

• Temporal Concept: This expression is used to refer to the sequence of events in time, highlighting that one thing happens before another.

• Common Combinations: 「〜以前」 can be combined with various time nouns, verbs, and adjectives to indicate specific time relationships.

• English Translation: It can be translated as "before" in English.

4. Example Sentences

1. 日本に来る以前、英語を勉強していた。
   Before coming to Japan, I was studying English.

2. 会議の前に、資料を準備しておきます。
   I will prepare the materials before the meeting.

3. 彼と会う以前、彼女はずっと忙しかった。
   She was very busy before meeting him.

5. Key Points to Note

1. Chronological Relationship: 「〜以前」 emphasizes the sequence of events, so it is important to clearly specify the event or time being referred to.

2. Context Suitability: This structure is commonly used in both spoken and written language, suitable for describing personal experiences, historical events, etc.

6. Similar Grammar

• 〜前: A similar expression that is often used in spoken language, indicating the time before a specific point.
  • Example: 出発の前に連絡します。
    (I will contact you before departure.)

7. Alternative Grammar

• 〜の前に: Indicates something happening before another event, applicable in more specific contexts.
  • Example: 試験の前に復習します。
    (I will review before the exam.)

8. Summary

「〜以前」 is a structure that expresses time, used to describe the situation or time frame before a certain event occurs. It emphasizes the chronological relationship between events and serves as a temporal cue in narration.