The words "previous" and "prior" are synonyms and don’t get much attention from language commentators.

TWTS: Prior to adding "to," no one cares about "previous" and "prior"

Funner, snuck, and LOL are all things that we're hearing people say these days.That's What They Say is a weekly segment on Michigan Public that explores our changing language. University of Michigan English Professor Anne Curzan studies linguistics and the history of the English language. Each week she'll discuss why we say what we say with Michigan Public All Things Considered host Rebecca Hector.That's What They Say airs Fridays at 4:45 p.m. and Sundays at 9:35 a.m. on Michigan Public and you can podcast it here.Do you have an English or grammar question? Ask us here!

Share TWTS: Prior to adding "to," no one cares about "previous" and "prior"

Sign up to save your podcasts

TWTS: Prior to adding "to," no one cares about "previous" and "prior"

TWTS: Prior to adding "to," no one cares about "previous" and "prior"

More shows like That's What They Say

This American Life

TED Radio Hour

Radiolab

Fresh Air

Hidden Brain

Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!

The Moth

99% Invisible

Grammar Girl Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing

Gastropod

StoryCorps

Science Friday

A Way with Words - language, linguistics, and callers from all over

On Hand

It's Just Politics

Short Wave

How To Do Everything