以前

Pattern visualization

Examples

1. 我以前来过这里。▶ —
   I've been here before.
2. 吃饭以前洗手。▶ —
   Wash hands before eating.

Collocations

Mnemonic

以前 yǐqián "before, previously" — 以 + 前. Pairs with 以后 (after). Use as time noun (in the past), or after a clause to mark "before X happens".

Quick check

1. Meaning of 吃饭以前?

   • before eating
   • after eating
   • during meal
   • no meal