1pri·or 
/ˈprajɚ/ adjective
always used before a noun /ˈprajɚ/ adjective 1 : existing earlier in time : previous
▪ prior approval ▪ in prior years ▪ Do you have a prior history of back problems? ▪ The job requires prior experience in advertising. ▪ The defendant had a prior record of convictions. ▪ I'm sorry, but we have a prior commitment and can't come tonight. ▪ The contract was canceled without prior notice. [=the contract was canceled right away] 2 formal : more important than something else because it came first
▪ We have a prior claim to the estate.
▪ prior approval ▪ in prior years ▪ Do you have a prior history of back problems? ▪ The job requires prior experience in advertising. ▪ The defendant had a prior record of convictions. ▪ I'm sorry, but we have a prior commitment and can't come tonight. ▪ The contract was canceled without prior notice. [=the contract was canceled right away]
▪ We have a prior claim to the estate.
prior to
somewhat formal : before (a time, event, etc.)
▪ Prior to dinner, photographs of the wedding party will be taken. ▪ My parents were married just prior to the war.
▪ Prior to dinner, photographs of the wedding party will be taken. ▪ My parents were married just prior to the war.
