之前

我們作出決定之前必須想得遠一點。
   We must look ahead before we make a decision.

在來到這裡之前,這個吟遊詩人已經去過很多地方。
   The minstrel had been to many places before he came here.

在我們得到正式批准之前沒有多少事可做。
   We can't do much until we get the official okay.

在父親找到一份好工作之前,我們一家人有五年多都在奔波,四處遷移。
   Our family was on the move for five years until dad found a good job.

在上顏料之前先給此景畫一個素描。
   Make an outline of the scene before you paint.

在我們出發之前馬達都徹底檢修過。
   The engines were overhauled completely before our departure.

他在簽字之前仔細閱讀了合同。
   He overlooked the contract before he signed it.

我們在得到新汽車之前必須付清全部款項。
   Full payment must be made before we get the new car.

孩子們,在你們完成家庭作業之前,我不想再聽到你們嘰嘰喳喳。
   I don't want to hear another peep out of you children until you've finished your homework.

讓我們在他回來之前把一切準備就緒。
   Pending his return, let us get everything ready.

減價開始之前,業務經理向售貨員講話,激勵士氣。
   The sales manager gave the salesmen a rousing pep talk before the sale.

大賽之前,教練向隊員講話,給他們打氣。
   The coach gave the team a pep talk before the big game.

在火熄滅之前她又加上些煤。
   She piled on more coal before the fire went out.

回答之前,他用手帕擦拭了一下眼鏡。
   He polished his spectacles with a handkerchief before answering.

在郵寄之前你應該把它包好。
   You should pack it up preparatory to sending it by post.

在街上大庭廣眾之前
   in the publicity of the streets

睡覺之前先熄掉爐火。
   Put out the fire before going to bed.

在他到達車間之前,機器已經開動了。
   Before he got to the workshop, the machine had been put in motion.

在從軍之前,男孩們外出喝酒且製造麻煩。
   The boys went out to drink and raise hell before going into the army.

囚犯被釋放之前受到了審問。
   The prisoner was questioned before his release.