anterior

word

Definition

Describes something that is before or situated in front of another thing, especially in place or time. Commonly used in scientific, medical, or formal contexts to mean 'front' or 'previous'.

Usage & Nuances

Mostly formal, especially medical/scientific: 'anterior' means closer to the front, opposite of 'posterior.' Used for body parts ('anterior knee'), time sequences ('the anterior event'), or places. In everyday English, 'front' or 'previous' is more common.

Example Sentences

Please check the anterior section of the document.

basic

The anterior part of the heart faces the chest wall.

basic

He injured his anterior cruciate ligament while playing soccer.

basic

In the anterior chapters, the author set up the main plot.

natural

The cyclist moved to the anterior position in the race.

natural

If you compare the anterior and posterior views, you can see the differences clearly.

natural