在先
before; first; previously
Meanings
3 senses · 11 examplesadverb
before; previously; formerly; in the past
Indicates a time in the past, often used at the beginning of a sentence or clause.
When I was young, I didn't understand anything.
This place used to be wasteland, but now high-rise buildings have been constructed.
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He used to live in the countryside, and later moved to the city.
adverb
in advance; beforehand; prior to
Indicates that an action is done prior to another event or as preparation.
No matter what you do, you must make preparations in advance.
Tell me beforehand so that I can arrange my schedule.
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Wash your hands before eating.
You go first, I'll be right there.
verb
to precede; to come before; to be prior (in time or order)
Used to indicate temporal or sequential priority, often in formal or technical contexts.
There has been a prior agreement. / It was agreed beforehand.
The attacking player committed a foul first, so the goal is invalid.
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Team A arrived at the finish line before Team B.
Please pay first, then collect the goods.