What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
backdate
Example
The contract was backdated to show that it was signed before the deadline. [backdated: past participle]
Example
He asked me to backdate the receipt so that it would match the date on the invoice. [backdate: verb]
predate
Example
Dinosaurs predate humans by millions of years. [predate: verb]
Example
The ancient civilization predates the modern city by centuries. [predates: present tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Predate is more commonly used than backdate in everyday language. Predate is versatile and can be used in various contexts to describe the chronological order of events or things. Backdate, on the other hand, is less common and is typically used in legal or business settings when referring to intentionally assigning an earlier date to a document or event.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between backdate and predate?
While backdate is associated with a more formal tone and is commonly used in legal or business contexts, predate is more commonly used in everyday language and can be employed in both formal and informal situations.
