What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
foregoing
Example
The foregoing terms and conditions apply to all participants. [foregoing: adjective]
Example
The foregoing discussion highlights the importance of this issue. [foregoing: noun]
previous
Example
I had a previous engagement and couldn't attend the meeting. [previous: adjective]
Example
In the previous chapter, we discussed the history of this topic. [previous: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Previous is more commonly used than foregoing in everyday language. Previous is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while foregoing is less common and is typically used in legal or formal documents.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between foregoing and previous?
Foregoing is typically associated with a more formal or legal tone, while previous is more neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
