Per another post, this question was arose.

Yes, the words seem to be synonymous, but some uses seem to call for one over the other. Or so it appears.

pri·or  (prr)
adj.
1. Preceding in time or order: "[They] insist that foreign vessels seeking access obtain prior approval" Seymour M. Hersh.
2. Preceding in importance or value: a prior consideration.

pre·vi·ous  (prv-s)
adj.
1. Existing or occurring before something else in time or order; prior: children by a previous marriage.
2. Informal Acting, occurring, or done too soon; premature.

Look at these examples and tell me which "seems" more logical.

"Previous to me, someone did this and that." [paraphrasing]
"Prior to me, someone did this and that." [paraphrasing]

Maybe it is because the sentence starts with the word previous that bothers me.

I have often heard, on television, the following statement:

"Previously on [insert program and history here]."

I wonder if the sentence structure is in question, now that I look at it further.

Should it read:
"Previous to me working here, someone did this and that." [paraphrasing]

Qualifying it seems to make it more palatable.

Thoughts?

Mike Barone
http://www.cgiscript.net

"One forgets words as one forgets names. One's vocabulary needs constant fertilizing or it will die."

 - Evelyn Waugh

Quote (MikeBarone):

Maybe it is because the sentence starts with the word previous that bothers me.

It should only bother you when previous is beginning a sentence in the role of an adverb.

Good Luck
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Please delete this post and the subsequent reply (after I read it ;).

Where can I find a CHEAT SHEET in the tags that can be used within the text box to format text and create the quote and code boxes?

I will let you know when I am done reading the post and you can delete the lot.

Mike Barone
http://www.cgiscript.net

"One forgets words as one forgets names. One's vocabulary needs constant fertilizing or it will die."

 - Evelyn Waugh

the codes are in Process TGML at the botom of the message box.

[code]some code here [/code] will give you a code box
[quote]some quote here[/quote] will give you a quote

Questions about posting. See FAQ183-874

Ahh, I see. Click that link and a popup appears! Thanks SQLSister!

Mike Barone
http://www.cgiscript.net

"One forgets words as one forgets names. One's vocabulary needs constant fertilizing or it will die."

 - Evelyn Waugh