prima
Lemma: prima
Translation: before; earlier; first; previously (adverb)
Etymology: Derived from Latin 'prima', the feminine form of 'primus' meaning 'first'. This shares the same Latin root as English words like 'primary', 'prime', 'primitive', and 'primordial'. The concept of 'first' or 'before' is preserved across both languages, making it relatively intuitive for English speakers.
Example Usage
Devo finire questo lavoro prima di andare a casa.
I need to finish this work before going home.
Prima abitavo a Roma, ora vivo a Milano.
I used to live in Rome before, now I live in Milan.
Chi arriva prima, aspetta.
Whoever arrives first, waits.
Prima di tutto, dobbiamo capire il problema.
First of all, we need to understand the problem.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'primary' in English - what comes first is 'prima'
- Remember 'prima donna' - the first lady of the opera
- Prima sounds like 'pre-' in English, which also indicates 'before'
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
A very common temporal marker in Italian, used in everyday speech and writing. It's essential for constructing time-related expressions and sequences of events.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Prima' is an adverb meaning 'before' or 'earlier', while 'primo' is an adjective meaning 'first' that must agree with the gender and number of the noun it modifies.
Confused word:
Lui è il primo della classe.
He is the first in the class.
Notes: 'Prima' can also function as a feminine adjective meaning 'first', but this is distinct from its adverbial use.
Mnemonic: 'Prima' ends in 'a' like many adverbs (ora, ancora), while 'primo' changes form like adjectives (primo, prima, primi, prime).
Explanation: 'Prima' alone is an adverb meaning 'before/earlier', while 'prima di' is a prepositional phrase meaning 'before (something/someone)'.
This word:
Ero stanco prima.
I was tired before.
Confused word:
Ero stanco prima di correre.
I was tired before running.
Notes: 'Prima di' must be followed by a noun or infinitive verb.
Mnemonic: Think of 'prima' as 'before' in general, and 'prima di' as 'before [specific thing]'.