anterior
“anterior” means “previous” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
previous, former
Also: preceding, last (the one before this one)
📝 In Action
Olvidé el código que usamos en la reunión anterior.
A2I forgot the code we used in the previous meeting.
Mi trabajo anterior era mucho más tranquilo que este.
B1My former job was much calmer than this one.
Si comparas este capítulo con el anterior, la historia tiene más sentido.
B2If you compare this chapter with the preceding one, the story makes more sense.
front, fore
Also: anterior
📝 In Action
La parte anterior del edificio necesita reparación urgente.
B1The front part of the building needs urgent repair.
Los dientes anteriores se utilizan para cortar la comida.
C1The anterior (front) teeth are used for cutting food.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: anterior
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'anterior' to mean 'front' (position)?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
'Anterior' comes directly from the Latin word *anterior*, which itself is the comparative form of *ante*, meaning 'before' or 'in front of'. It literally means 'more before' or 'more in front'.
First recorded: Medieval Latin texts
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'anterior' and 'pasado'?
'Pasado' (last/past) is generally used to refer to time periods (e.g., 'el mes pasado' - last month). 'Anterior' (previous/preceding) is used when emphasizing the sequence or order, often in written or formal contexts (e.g., 'la página anterior' - the previous page).
Can I use 'anterior' as a noun?
Yes, but usually in the fixed phrase 'lo anterior' (the previous thing/what was mentioned before). Example: 'Lo anterior es muy importante' (The previous point is very important).