Synonyms:
predate, precede, forego, forgo, antecede, antedate
Meaning: be earlier in time; go back further; "Stone tools precede bronze tools"
Usage examples
When she got her husband's letter, she knew then at the bottom of her heart that everything would go on in the old way, that she would not have the strength of will to forego her position, to abandon her son, and to join her lover.
If it be, I will lose no time to provide a horse for you, and another for myself; for I can never do either God or myself better service, though I were to forego all my expectations for it here, I am 'Your most faithful humble servant.'