Pre vs. Post
The prefixes “pre-” and “post-” point in opposite time or sequence directions: pre- means before, while post- means after. The exact spelling of a prefixed word can depend on the established word or style, so the meaning contrast does not by itself decide whether a hyphen is used.
Use “pre-” for before and “post-” for after. Check the established spelling of the complete word rather than assuming every pre-/post- formation is hyphenated the same way.
Key details
Further guidance
Choice Test
Choose the prefix from the time/sequence relationship first, then verify the spelling of the complete term.
Hyphen Boundary
The semantic contrast is stable, but the written form of a particular prefixed word can be closed or hyphenated according to established usage and style.
Meaning
“Pre-” forms words with a before sense; “post-” forms words with an after sense.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- Prefixes — English Grammar Today (opens in a new tab)Cambridge Dictionary · Grammar reference for prefixes including pre- meaning before and post- meaning after.