Fill in the gap(s) with the most appropriate option from the list following the gap(s).

The minister can't come today because he has ...... engagement?

Favouruniquewilliams

1 year ago

Prior vs. Preceding
While both "prior" and "preceding" imply something happening before, there's a subtle difference:

*1. Prior*
- Implies a commitment or event scheduled before the current time or situation.
- Often used in formal contexts to politely decline invitations.

*2. Preceding*
- Typically refers to something happening immediately before another event or time.
- Less commonly used in the context of scheduling conflicts.

Why "Prior" Fits Better
In the sentence, "a prior engagement" is a fixed expression that fits perfectly, conveying a previously scheduled commitment. "A preceding engagement" would sound less natural in this context.

reference: Meta AI Whatsapp

itzsandra

10 years ago

Prior and preceding are both correct

calistusifeanyi45@gmail.com

11 years ago

i thank you all