Phrase guide

come before

verb · 5 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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No pronunciation record was provided for this word.

1

verb

Meaning 1

To appear publicly in front of someone superior.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: transitive

Examples

  • He was summoned to come before the king.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

verb

Meaning 2

to be of greater importance (than)

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: transitive

Examples

  • Looking out for your family should come before making money.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

3

verb

Meaning 3

to be judged, decided or discussed by authority.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: transitive

Examples

  • Jones' behavior will come before the board of directors.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

4

verb

Meaning 4

To precede.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: transitive

Examples

  • F comes before G in the alphabet.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

5

verb

Meaning 5

be the predecessor of

Definition source: Princeton WordNet 3.0

Examples

  • Bill preceded John in the long line of Susan's husbands

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: precede

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.