Can You Start a Sentence with Before? Here Defined!

Author:

Waqas Ashraf

Affiliate Disclaimer

As an affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. We get commissions for purchases made through links on this website from Amazon and other third parties.

Starting a Sentence with “Before”: Yes, You Can! Starting a sentence with “before” is a common practice in the English language. Yes, you can start a sentence with “before.”

This article will explore the rules and guidelines for using “before” at the beginning of a sentence, providing clarity on this often debated topic.

Table of Contents

Start a Sentence with Before:

Yes, you can absolutely start a sentence with “before.” “Before” can function as a subordinating conjunction to create a dependent clause that introduces a time frame or condition before the main clause of the sentence.

Here are some examples of sentences starting with “before”:

Simple time frame: Before the meeting started, we grabbed a cup of coffee.

Conditional clause: Before you leave, please turn off the lights.
Emphasizing urgency: Before I forget, I wanted to ask you about the report.

What Is a Good Sentence for “before”?

The best sentence for “before” depends on what you want to convey. Here are some options depending on the purpose:

Simple Time Frame:

Before the sun rose, the birds began their morning chorus.
Before the meeting started, we reviewed the agenda.

Conditional Clause:

Before you leave, please water the plants. (Action needed before another action)
Before you make a decision, consider all your options. (Advice or suggestion)

Emphasizing Urgency:

Before I forget, I wanted to wish you a happy birthday!
Before it’s too late, we need to take action on this project.

Does Before Make a Sentence Complex?

No, using “before” at the beginning of a sentence doesn’t necessarily make it complex. The complexity of a sentence depends on the structure of the entire sentence, not just the first word.

Here’s why:

“Before” can introduce two types of clauses:

Dependent clause: This relies on the main clause for complete meaning. When “before” introduces a dependent clause at the beginning of a sentence, it creates a complex sentence.

Example: Before the meeting started, we reviewed the agenda. (The dependent clause provides information about the timing before the main action)

Independent clause: This can stand alone and express a complete thought. Using “before” at the beginning of an independent clause does not create a complex sentence; it’s a simple sentence with a time reference.

Example: Before the meeting, we grabbed a cup of coffee. (Both clauses can stand alone; “Before the meeting” simply sets the stage for the main action)

Is Before Used in A Complex Sentence?

Yes, “before” can be used in a complex sentence, but it can also be used in a simple sentence. The key to understanding this is the role that “before” plays in the sentence structure.

Before as a Subordinating Conjunction:

In complex sentences, “before” functions as a subordinating conjunction. It introduces a dependent clause that provides context or additional information about the main clause.
The dependent clause cannot stand alone as a complete thought.

Here’s an example:

Before the meeting started, we reviewed the agenda. (Dependent clause: Before the meeting started. Main clause: We reviewed the agenda.)

Before Preposition Sentence Examples:

Here are some sentence examples using “before” as a preposition:

Time:

She arrived before me. (compares the timing of two arrivals)
We need to finish this project before the deadline. (specifies a time limit)
The movie starts before sunset. (indicates time relation to another event)

Position:

The picture frame is hanging before the window. (indicates location in front of something)
The house on the corner is located before the intersection. (gives a directional reference)

Please turn left before the bridge. (provides instruction about location)

Comparison:

I’ve never seen that movie before. (compares current experience to past experiences)

He was a lawyer before becoming a politician. (compares previous and current roles)
This challenge seems easier before we actually start. (compares perception before and after starting)

What Is the Rule for Before in Grammar?

The rule for “before” in grammar depends on how it’s used in the sentence.

Subordinating Conjunction (Complex Sentences):

“Before” + dependent clause = Introduces a time frame or condition before the main action of the sentence.

Example: Before the meeting started, we reviewed the agenda. (Dependent clause: Before the meeting started. Main clause: We reviewed the agenda.)

Preposition (Simple or Complex Sentences):

“Before” + noun phrase = Shows relations like time, position, comparison, or preference.

Examples:

Time: She arrived before me. (compares timing)
Preference: I would like coffee before breakfast. (expresses preference for order)

How Do You Use Before as An Adverb in A Sentence?

While “before” is very commonly used as a preposition and subordinating conjunction, it can be argued to be used as an adverb in some specific contexts.

However, there’s some debate among grammarians about this classification.

Here’s a breakdown of the two perspectives:

Perspective 1: Before Not Considered a True Adverb

In this view, “before” doesn’t modify a verb, adjective, or another adverb in the way a typical adverb functions.
It introduces a time frame or compares something to a previous state, which isn’t a core function of an adverb.

Perspective 2: Before as a Less Common Adverb

This perspective acknowledges the prepositional role of “before” but suggests it can also function as an adverb in specific situations.
In these cases, it modifies a verb, adjective, or another adverb.

Is Before a Preposition of Time or Place?

“Before” can function as a preposition of both time and place. Here’s a breakdown of how it’s used in each case:

Preposition of Time:

“Before” is most commonly used as a preposition of time.
It indicates that something happens earlier than another event or during a specific period in the past.

Here are some examples:

She arrived before me. (compares the timing of two arrivals)
In the past (alternative preposition for past time)

Preposition of Place:

“Before” can also be a preposition of place, although it’s less common than its use for time.
It indicates location in front of something or a position leading up to something.

Here are some examples:

The picture frame is hanging before the window. (indicates location in front of something)
In front of (alternative preposition for location in front)

Conclusion and Final Thoughts!

Starting a sentence with “before” is not only grammatically correct but also adds variety and interest to your writing. By using this technique thoughtfully, you can engage your readers and create more dynamic and engaging content.

Remember, grammar rules are important, but breaking them strategically can set your writing apart from the rest.

So go ahead, experiment with starting sentences with “before” and watch your writing come alive!