What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
earlier
Example
I woke up earlier than usual today. [earlier: adverb]
Example
We had met earlier in the day, before the incident happened. [earlier: adjective]
previously
Example
I had previously visited this museum before. [previously: adverb]
Example
The previously mentioned study showed similar results. [previously: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Earlier is more common in everyday language, while previously is more formal and often used in academic or professional contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between earlier and previously?
Previously is more formal than earlier and is often used in academic or professional contexts.
