に先立ち | Grammar

Structure

[noun] + に先立ち [noun] + に先立って [noun] + に先立つ + [noun]

[verb(dict form)] + のに先立ち [verb(dict form)] + のに先立って [verb(dict form)] + のに先立つ + [noun]

Description

に先立ち (and its variations に先立って and に先立つ + Noun) is a formal expression meaning "prior to," "before," or "ahead of." It is used when describing something that is done in preparation for or in advance of an important event or action.

Unlike the more casual まえに前に, which simply indicates temporal sequence, に先立ち carries a nuance of formality and deliberate preparation. It implies that the first action is done specifically because of, or in connection with, the upcoming event. This grammar point is commonly found in formal announcements, business contexts, ceremonies, and written language.

Forms

There are three main variations:

Noun + に先立ち – used mid-sentence in formal writing
Noun + に先立って – slightly less stiff; also used in speech
Noun + に先立つ + Noun – modifies a following noun directly

Usage

Describing preparation before an important event:

、。

Prior to the opening, there will be a greeting from the chairman.

、。

Prior to the construction, an information session was held for residents.

Modifying a noun with に先立つ:

。

A press conference prior to the product launch was held.

Notes

に先立ち is used with events of significance – meetings, ceremonies, launches, projects, etc. It would sound unnatural with everyday, trivial actions like eating or going to the store.
The action described before に先立ち is the main/upcoming event, and the action in the main clause is what happens in advance of it.
Compare with まえに前に: かいぎ会議のまえに前にこうひいコーヒーをのんだ飲んだ (casual, no special preparation nuance) vs. かいぎ会議にさきだち先立ち、しりょう資料をはいふ配布した (formal, deliberate preparation).

Examples

、。

Prior to the opening, we will observe a moment of silence.

、。

Prior to the launch of the new product, samples were distributed.

、。

Prior to the actual performance, we conducted a rehearsal.

、。

Prior to the start of construction, notices were sent to nearby residents.

、。

Prior to departure, we will give a safety briefing.

。

Preparations prior to the ceremony are steadily progressing.

、。

Prior to the film's release, a special preview screening was held.

、。

Prior to signing the contract, both parties confirmed the conditions.

、。

Prior to the election, each candidate held a debate on television.

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Prior to the survey, it is necessary to obtain consent from the participants.

、。

In the months prior to the hosting of the Olympics, the city changed dramatically.

References

に先立ちBunpro