previo

Previo is a term used in the Spanish language primarily as an adjective meaning before, prior, or preceding. It describes something that comes earlier in time or sequence and is often found in phrases that refer to earlier steps, conditions, or moments. The feminine form previa is used when modifying feminine nouns, while previo is used with masculine nouns.

Etymology and usage notes: PrevIO derives from the Spanish prefix pre- meaning before, combined with a historic suffix that forms adjectives. As a result, it commonly appears in compound expressions such as periodo previo (previous period), aviso previo (prior notice), or revisión previa (preliminary review). In legal, administrative, and formal writing, previo is frequently paired with nouns to indicate a condition or action that must occur beforehand.

Examples and contexts: In everyday language, you may encounter phrases like "documentos previos" (previous documents) or "procedimiento previo" (prior procedure). The feminine form previa appears in phrases like revisión previa or autorización previa, reflecting agreement with the gender of the noun it modifies. The term is versatile across diverse domains, including time-related descriptions, procedural steps, and scheduling.

Other languages and usage: Outside of Spanish, previo is not a common standalone term in standard usage. It may appear in bilingual texts, linguistic discussions, or in names and titles that preserve Spanish forms. In some cases, previos may also appear in proper nouns, such as place names or surnames, though there is no universally recognized entity simply named “Previo.”

See also: pre- (prefix), anterior, prior notice, preliminary.