Alternatives to “As Previously Mentioned”: A Grammar Guide

In writing and speech, referring back to something already stated is a common necessity. However, repeatedly using the phrase “as previously mentioned” can make your language sound monotonous and uninspired.

Mastering a variety of alternative expressions not only enhances clarity but also adds sophistication and nuance to your communication. This comprehensive guide explores numerous ways to convey the same meaning, providing definitions, examples, and practical exercises to help you diversify your vocabulary and improve your overall communication skills.

This guide is beneficial for students, professionals, and anyone looking to refine their English language abilities.

This article will help you understand the subtle differences between these alternatives, enabling you to choose the most appropriate phrase for any given context. By the end of this guide, you will be equipped with a rich toolkit of expressions to replace “as previously mentioned,” making your writing and speech more engaging and effective.

Table of Contents

Definition: Alternatives to “As Previously Mentioned”

The phrase “as previously mentioned” is used to refer back to information that has already been introduced in a conversation or piece of writing. It serves as a signal to the audience that the current point is connected to something they have already heard or read.

However, relying solely on this phrase can become repetitive and detract from the overall quality of communication. Therefore, it’s essential to have a repertoire of alternative expressions that can convey the same meaning in a more varied and engaging manner.

Alternatives to “as previously mentioned” can be classified based on their function and level of formality. Some alternatives are more direct and explicit, while others are more subtle and implicit.

The choice of which alternative to use depends on the context, the audience, and the desired tone of the communication. Understanding these nuances is key to effective and sophisticated language use.

Structural Breakdown

The structure of phrases that replace “as previously mentioned” usually involves a reference to a prior statement, either directly or indirectly. These phrases can take various forms, including:

  • Adverbial phrases: These phrases modify the verb, indicating that the action is related to something previously stated. Examples include “as noted earlier,” “as indicated above,” and “previously stated.”
  • Relative clauses: These clauses provide additional information about a noun or pronoun, often referring back to a previous point. Examples include “which was discussed earlier” and “that we examined previously.”
  • Transitional phrases: These phrases connect ideas and show the relationship between them, often indicating a reference to something already mentioned. Examples include “therefore,” “consequently,” and “accordingly.”
  • Pronoun references: Using pronouns like “this,” “that,” “these,” or “those” can refer back to a previously mentioned noun or idea.

The key is to ensure that the reference is clear and unambiguous, so the audience can easily understand the connection between the current point and the previous one. Clarity and conciseness are paramount when choosing an alternative to “as previously mentioned.”

Types and Categories of Alternatives

Alternatives to “as previously mentioned” can be grouped into several categories based on their structure and function:

Direct Reference

These alternatives explicitly refer back to a specific point or statement that was made earlier. They leave little room for ambiguity and are often used in formal writing or when precision is important.

Indirect Reference

These alternatives imply a connection to a previous point without directly mentioning it. They rely on the audience’s understanding of the context and the logical flow of ideas.

These are often found in more casual or conversational settings.

Synonym Substitution

This involves using synonyms for “mentioned” or “stated” to create variations of the original phrase. This approach can add variety and sophistication to your language without significantly changing the meaning.

Elliptical Reference

Elliptical references omit words that are understood from the context, creating a more concise and efficient way to refer back to previous information. This technique requires careful consideration to ensure the meaning remains clear.

Examples

The following sections provide examples of each type of alternative, illustrating how they can be used in different contexts.

Direct Reference Examples

Direct reference alternatives explicitly point back to something previously stated. Here are some examples:

The table below presents 30 examples of direct reference alternatives to “as previously mentioned.”

Alternative Example Sentence
As stated earlier As stated earlier, the deadline for the project is Friday.
As noted above As noted above, the data indicates a significant increase in sales.
As discussed before As discussed before, we will need to allocate additional resources.
Previously mentioned The previously mentioned issues need to be addressed immediately.
As highlighted previously As highlighted previously, employee satisfaction is crucial for productivity.
In the preceding section In the preceding section, we outlined the theoretical framework.
As outlined above As outlined above, the proposed solution offers several advantages.
As I mentioned earlier As I mentioned earlier, I will be out of the office next week.
As we discussed As we discussed, the budget needs to be revised.
Referenced above The referenced above study supports our hypothesis.
Earlier in this document Earlier in this document, we defined the key terms.
In the previous chapter In the previous chapter, the author introduced the main character.
As we have seen As we have seen, the evidence points to a clear conclusion.
As already indicated As already indicated, further research is needed.
In the aforementioned report In the aforementioned report, the findings were conclusive.
As detailed above As detailed above, the process involves several steps.
As explained earlier As explained earlier, the concept is relatively simple.
As pointed out before As pointed out before, this is a common issue.
Previously addressed The previously addressed concerns have been resolved.
As stipulated earlier As stipulated earlier, all participants must sign the waiver.
As demonstrated above As demonstrated above, the method is highly effective.
Recalled previously The recalled previously data highlights the need for intervention.
As brought up earlier As brought up earlier, the timeline needs adjustments.
In the prior discussion In the prior discussion, we agreed on the action plan.
As established previously As established previously, the standard practice is to follow protocol.
Indicated previously The indicated previously levels are back within range.
As showcased above As showcased above, the product features are very innovative.
As determined earlier As determined earlier, the root cause was a software bug.
Presented previously The presented previously research supports the claim.
As clarified above As clarified above, the instructions are very specific.

Indirect Reference Examples

Indirect reference alternatives imply a connection to a previous point without directly stating it. Subtle yet effective, these phrases rely on context and logical flow.

The table below presents 30 examples of indirect reference alternatives to “as previously mentioned.”

Alternative Example Sentence
Therefore The results are inconsistent; therefore, we need more data.
Consequently The system failed; consequently, we lost valuable information.
Accordingly The rules have changed; accordingly, we must adjust our strategy.
Thus The demand is high; thus, we must increase production.
In light of this In light of this, we should re-evaluate our priorities.
Given this Given this, we can proceed with the next phase.
Following this Following this, we will conduct a thorough review.
Based on this Based on this, we can make informed decisions.
With this in mind With this in mind, we should approach the problem differently.
In that case In that case, we should reconsider our options.
That being said That being said, there are still challenges to overcome.
In this context In this context, the issue is particularly relevant.
Considering this Considering this, we need to take immediate action.
As a result The changes were implemented; as a result, efficiency improved.
Subsequently The initial analysis was flawed; subsequently, we corrected it.
Then First, we gather the data; then, we analyze it.
Following on from this Following on from this, we will present our findings.
Building on this Building on this, we can develop a comprehensive solution.
In connection with this In connection with this, we are collaborating with other teams.
On this basis On this basis, we can justify our recommendations.
Given the above Given the above, we are in the position to move forward.
From this perspective From this perspective, the problem is more complex.
In light of the foregoing In light of the foregoing, we can now summarize.
Consequent to that Consequent to that, we made the decision to reorganize.
Stemming from this Stemming from this, a new initiative was launched.
Taking this into account Taking this into account, we decided to postpone.
As a consequence As a consequence, we had to make some tough choices.
In view of this In view of this, we decided to change the approach.
Bearing this in mind Bearing this in mind, we can re-evaluate the strategy.
With that being the case With that being the case, a new plan was drafted.
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Synonym Substitution Examples

By using synonyms for “mentioned” or “stated,” you can vary your language while retaining the original meaning.

The table below presents 20 examples of synonym substitution alternatives to “as previously mentioned.”

Alternative Example Sentence
As indicated earlier As indicated earlier, the budget is limited.
As shown previously As shown previously, the graph illustrates the trend.
As expressed before As expressed before, clear communication is essential.
As articulated above As articulated above, the vision is ambitious.
As conveyed earlier As conveyed earlier, feedback is always welcome.
As specified above As specified above, all documents must be submitted by Friday.
As detailed before As detailed before, the process involves multiple steps.
As clarified earlier As clarified earlier, the guidelines are very specific.
As explained previously As explained previously, the concept is not new.
As outlined above As outlined above, the strategy is comprehensive.
As presented before As presented before, the data supports our claim.
As described earlier As described earlier, the system is user-friendly.
As noted previously As noted previously, attention to detail is crucial.
As revealed above As revealed above, the truth is more complex.
As disclosed earlier As disclosed earlier, we are facing some challenges.
As asserted previously As asserted previously, the claim is unsubstantiated.
As stipulated above As stipulated above, certain conditions must be met.
As emphasized earlier As emphasized earlier, teamwork is essential.
As mentioned previously As mentioned previously, we need to plan ahead.
As advised above As advised above, all participants must register.

Elliptical-Reference Examples

Elliptical references involve omitting words that are understood from the context, creating concise and efficient references.

Here are 20 examples of elliptical reference alternatives to “as previously mentioned.” The omitted words are implied through context.

Alternative Example Sentence
Already noted The issue is already noted, and we are working on it.
Previously discussed The budget was previously discussed and approved.
As before The process remains as before, with minor changes.
Earlier Earlier, we covered the main points; now, we delve deeper.
As above Follow the instructions as above for best results.
Previously The data was collected previously and analyzed thoroughly.
Mentioned earlier The deadline, mentioned earlier, is fast approaching.
Indicated above The levels, indicated above, are within acceptable range.
Addressed previously The concerns, addressed previously, have been resolved.
Stated earlier The requirements, stated earlier, must be followed.
Demonstrated above The method, demonstrated above, is highly effective.
Recalled previously The data, recalled previously, supports the claim.
Brought up earlier The timeline, brought up earlier, needs adjustments.
Established previously The standard, established previously, is to follow protocol.
Showcased above The product, showcased above, is highly innovative.
Determined earlier The root cause, determined earlier, was a software bug.
Presented previously The research, presented previously, supports the claim.
Clarified above The instructions, clarified above, are very specific.
Explained earlier The concept, explained earlier, is relatively simple.
Advised above All participants, advised above, must register.

Usage Rules

When choosing an alternative to “as previously mentioned,” consider the following rules:

  • Clarity: Ensure the reference is clear and unambiguous. The audience should easily understand what you are referring to.
  • Context: Choose an alternative that is appropriate for the context. Formal writing may require more direct references, while informal conversation may allow for more subtle references.
  • Audience: Consider your audience when choosing an alternative. Use language that they will understand and appreciate.
  • Tone: Select an alternative that matches the tone of your writing or speech. Avoid using overly formal language in informal settings, and vice versa.
  • Variety: Use a variety of alternatives to avoid repetition and keep your language engaging.
  • Conciseness: Opt for the most concise alternative that effectively conveys the meaning. Avoid unnecessary words or phrases.

Adhering to these rules will help you use alternatives to “as previously mentioned” effectively and appropriately, enhancing the clarity and sophistication of your communication.

Common Mistakes

Several common mistakes can occur when using alternatives to “as previously mentioned.” Understanding these mistakes can help you avoid them and improve your language skills.

Here are some common mistakes and their corrections:

Incorrect Correct Explanation
The above data shows… The data above shows… “Above” is an adverb and doesn’t need “the” before “data.”
As I have mention… As I have mentioned… Use the correct past participle form of the verb “mention.”
In previously report… In the previous report… “Previous” is an adjective and requires an article (“the”).
Like we discussed… As we discussed… Use “as” for comparisons or references, not “like.”
Following to this… Following this… “Following” is used alone as a preposition in this context.
That what I said… That is what I said… Use “that is” for clarity and grammatical correctness.
In before sections… In previous sections… Use “previous” to denote earlier sections.
As was state… As was stated… Use the correct past participle form of “state.”
According to that… Accordingly… “Accordingly” already implies “according to what was said.”
Which I mentioned it… Which I mentioned… The pronoun “it” is redundant.
As been said earlier… As has been said earlier… Use the correct auxiliary verb “has” with “been.”
The before mentioned… The aforementioned… “Aforementioned” is a single word that means “mentioned before.”
Like I said before… As I said before… “As” is the correct word to use when referencing something previously said.
Previously what I mentioned… Previously, as I mentioned… The construction should be clearer by placing “previously” at the start.
That which we spoke… That which we spoke about… Omit “about” to make the sentence grammatically correct.

Avoiding these common mistakes will help you use alternatives to “as previously mentioned” more accurately and effectively.

Practice Exercises

The following exercises will help you practice using alternatives to “as previously mentioned.”

Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks

Fill in the blanks with the most appropriate alternative to “as previously mentioned.”

Instructions: Choose the best phrase from the choices provided to complete each sentence, replacing “as previously mentioned.”

Question Choices Answer
____, the deadline is next Friday. a) As stated earlier, b) Like I said, c) Beforehand a) As stated earlier
The data, ____, indicates a rising trend. a) as I said, b) indicated above, c) like previously b) indicated above
____, we need to allocate more resources. a) As discussed, b) Like we talked, c) Before we spoke a) As discussed
The ____ issues must be resolved. a) previously mention, b) previously mentioned, c) like I said before b) previously mentioned
____, employee satisfaction is key. a) As highlight, b) As highlighted previously, c) Before mentioned b) As highlighted previously
____, we outlined the framework. a) In the last part, b) In the preceding section, c) Like before b) In the preceding section
____, the solution has merits. a) As outline above, b) As outlined above, c) Like we showed b) As outlined above
____, I’ll be out next week. a) As I mention, b) As I mentioned earlier, c) Like I am saying b) As I mentioned earlier
____, the budget needs work. a) As we talk, b) As we discussed, c) Like we mention b) As we discussed
The ____ study supports this. a) reference above, b) referenced above, c) like I said b) referenced above
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Exercise 2: Rewriting Sentences

Rewrite the following sentences, replacing “as previously mentioned” with a suitable alternative.

Instructions: Rewrite each sentence, replacing the phrase “as previously mentioned” with a more appropriate alternative, based on the context.

Original Sentence Rewritten Sentence
As previously mentioned, the deadline is fast approaching. The deadline, as stated earlier, is fast approaching.
As previously mentioned, the data shows a clear trend. The data, indicated above, shows a clear trend.
We need more resources, as previously mentioned. We need more resources, as discussed before.
The issues, as previously mentioned, need addressing. The previously mentioned issues need addressing.
Employee satisfaction is crucial, as previously mentioned. Employee satisfaction is crucial, as highlighted previously.
As previously mentioned, we defined the key terms. Earlier in this document, we defined the key terms.
The proposed solution, as previously mentioned, has advantages. The proposed solution, as outlined above, has several advantages.
As previously mentioned, I will be out of office. As I mentioned earlier, I will be out of the office.
The budget, as previously mentioned, needs revision. The budget, as we discussed, needs to be revised.
The study, as previously mentioned, supports this. The study referenced above supports our hypothesis.

Exercise 3: Sentence Combining

Combine the following sentences, using an alternative to “as previously mentioned” to connect them.

Instructions: Combine the following pairs of sentences into single sentences, using alternatives to “as previously mentioned” to link the ideas smoothly.

Sentence 1 Sentence 2 Combined Sentence
We set the guidelines. These guidelines must be followed. The guidelines, as stipulated earlier, must be followed.
The method is effective. We demonstrated it previously. The method, as demonstrated above, is highly effective.
The data supports the claim. We recalled the data. The data, recalled previously, supports the claim.
We brought up the timeline. The timeline needs adjustments. The timeline, brought up earlier, needs adjustments.
The standard practice is to follow protocol. We established the standard. The standard, established previously, is to follow protocol.
The product is innovative. We showcased the product. The product, showcased above, is highly innovative.
The root cause was a bug. We determined the root cause. The root cause, determined earlier, was a software bug.
The research supports the claim. We presented the research. The research, presented previously, supports the claim.
The instructions are specific. We clarified the instructions. The instructions, clarified above, are very specific.
The concept is simple. We explained the concept. The concept, explained earlier, is relatively simple.

Advanced Topics

For advanced learners, consider exploring the nuances of using alternatives to “as previously mentioned” in different genres and contexts. For instance, legal writing often requires precise and formal references, while creative writing may benefit from more subtle and evocative language.

Additionally, exploring the use of these alternatives in different dialects of English can provide valuable insights into regional variations and cultural differences. Furthermore, delving into the historical evolution of these phrases and their usage patterns can offer a deeper understanding of their significance and impact on communication.

Finally, consider studying the rhetorical effect of different alternatives on the audience. Some alternatives may be more persuasive or authoritative than others, depending on the context and the audience’s perception.

Understanding these subtle effects can help you craft more effective and impactful communication.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about alternatives to “as previously mentioned.”

  1. Why is it important to use alternatives to “as previously mentioned”?

    Using alternatives to “as previously mentioned” adds variety and sophistication to your language, making it more engaging and effective. It also prevents repetition, which can make your writing or speech sound monotonous.

  2. How do I choose the most appropriate alternative for a given context?

    Consider the context, audience, tone, and level of formality. Formal writing may require more direct references, while informal conversation may allow for more subtle references. Choose an alternative that is clear, concise, and appropriate for the situation.

  3. What are some common mistakes to avoid when using these alternatives?

    Common mistakes include using incorrect grammar, choosing an inappropriate alternative for the context, and creating ambiguity in the reference. Always double-check your work to ensure clarity and accuracy.

  4. Can I use these alternatives in both writing and speech?

    Yes, most of these alternatives can be used in both writing and speech. However, some alternatives may be more suitable for one medium than the other. For example, more formal alternatives may be better suited for writing, while more informal alternatives may be better suited for speech.

  5. How can I improve my ability to use these alternatives effectively?

    Practice using these alternatives in different contexts and seek feedback from others. Pay attention to how native speakers use these phrases and try to incorporate their usage patterns into your own language. Reading widely and listening to diverse sources can also expand your vocabulary and improve your understanding of these alternatives.

  6. Are there any regional variations in the use of these alternatives?

    Yes, there may be regional variations in the use of these alternatives. Some phrases may be more common in certain dialects of English than others. Pay attention to the language used by speakers in your region and adapt your usage accordingly.

  7. Is it always necessary to use an alternative to “as previously mentioned”?

    No, it is not always necessary. In some cases, “as previously mentioned” may be the most appropriate phrase to use. However, it is generally a good idea to vary your language and use alternatives when possible to avoid repetition and enhance clarity.

  8. What if I’m unsure whether an alternative is appropriate for a particular context?

    If you are unsure, it is always best to err on the side of caution and choose a more direct and explicit alternative. Clarity is paramount, and it is better to be slightly more formal than to risk confusing your audience.

Conclusion

Mastering alternatives to “as previously mentioned” is essential for effective communication. By expanding your vocabulary and understanding the nuances of different expressions, you can enhance the clarity, sophistication, and engagement of your writing and speech.

Remember to consider the context, audience, tone, and level of formality when choosing an alternative, and always strive for clarity and conciseness. Continuous practice and attention to detail will help you use these alternatives effectively and appropriately, improving your overall language skills.

By incorporating these alternatives into your repertoire, you’ll not only avoid repetition but also demonstrate a command of the English language that will impress your audience and elevate your communication to a higher level. Keep practicing, keep exploring, and keep refining your skills to become a more confident and effective communicator.

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