JLPT N2 grammar

〜に先立って／に先立ち／に先立つmeaning and usage

Meaning

Before A occurs/takes place

How to form it

  • nounに先立って/に先立ち
  • verb (dictionary form)に先立って/に先立ち
  • nounに先立つnoun

How it is used

Before an important event, something preparatory is done: 'prior to'. It is formal, used for occasions such as meetings, matches or premieres, and more ceremonious than 「〜前に」. A is usually a planned, special event.

Examples

  1. 映画が始まるに先立ち主演俳優が作品を紹介しました。

    Before the movie started, the lead actor introduced the film.

  2. 試合に先立って、両チームの選手があいさつをした。

    Before the match, the players of both teams greeted each other.

  3. 出発に先立って、旅行の説明会が開かれた。

    Prior to departure, a briefing on the trip was held.