How to Pronounce Before

To pronounce "before", say BEF-or-e — 3 syllables, IPA /bɪˈfɔː/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

before

Tap to hear · American accent

Accent

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Speed

Syllable by syllable — tap each one

Practice: Record & Compare

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Syllables

Letters

/bɪˈfɔː/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “before”

"before" has 3 syllables: bef-or-e. It rhymes with implore and core, if that helps it stick.

What does before mean?

adverb

At an earlier time.
“I've never done this before.”
In advance.

preposition

Earlier than (in time).
“I want this done before Monday.”
In front of in space.
“He stood before me.”

conjunction

In advance of the time when.
Rather or sooner than.
“I'll die before I'll tell you anything about it.”

Synonyms

previously in front ahead by ere no later than previous to prior to ahead of in front of

Antonyms

after behind later

Hear “before” in real sentences

Real example sentences from Tatoeba (CC-BY) — tap to hear each one, or see it used on YouGlish.

Words that rhyme with before

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

implore core furthermore abhor whore frore therefore score gore sore lore rapport

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "before"?▾

"Before" has 3 syllables: bef · or · e.

What is the IPA transcription of "before"?▾

The IPA transcription of "before" is /bɪˈfɔː/.

What does "before" mean?▾

Before: At an earlier time.

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