previously mentioned

/ˈpriːviəsli ˈmɛnʃənd/
earlier referenced

Please review the previously mentioned guidelines before submitting your report.

The guidelines were discussed earlier and should be checked before submission.


formal

Referenced or stated earlier in a text or conversation.

As previously mentioned in the contract, late payments incur a penalty fee.

The contract specified earlier that late payments would have a penalty.

The previously mentioned study found a strong correlation between sleep and productivity.

A study discussed earlier showed a link between sleep and productivity.

Used to direct attention to information already provided. Common in academic writing, legal documents, and formal reports.

Related Phrases

as noted earlierphrase
similar to previously mentioned but less formal
as discussedphrase
introduces a topic already covered

Pro Tip

Avoid redundancy

Instead of repeating 'previously mentioned' multiple times, use synonyms like 'aforementioned' or 'as noted earlier' to maintain readability.

Gold Rule

Use for clarity

This phrase is useful in formal writing to direct readers to earlier information without restating it. Ensure the reference is clear to avoid confusion.

Word Origin

Combination of 'previously' (from Latin 'praevius', meaning 'going before') and 'mentioned' (past participle of 'mention', from Latin 'mentio', meaning 'calling to mind'). The phrase emerged in English in the 17th century as a formal way to reference prior discussion.

Usage Notes

This phrase is typically used in formal or written contexts to avoid repetition. It is more common in academic, legal, or technical writing than in casual speech. Avoid overusing it in the same text to maintain clarity.

Word Breakdown

previously
at an earlier time
adverb
+
mentioned
referred to in speech or writing
past participle
English Dictionary