What Does “As Previously Mentioned” Mean?
“As previously mentioned” is a formal English phrase used to refer readers or listeners back to information that has already been stated earlier in a conversation, document, email, presentation, or discussion.
Quick Definition
As previously mentioned means “as stated earlier,” “as noted before,” or “as discussed previously.” It is used to avoid repeating information while reminding the audience of an earlier point.
Example:
- As previously mentioned, the project deadline is June 30.
- As previously mentioned, customer feedback will be reviewed during the next meeting.
The phrase is common in business communication, academic writing, reports, legal documents, presentations, and professional emails because it helps create cohesion and continuity.
Understanding the Meaning of “As Previously Mentioned”
The phrase consists of three parts:
| Word | Meaning |
| As | In the same way or manner |
| Previously | Earlier in time |
| Mentioned | Referred to or stated |
When combined, the phrase signals that the speaker or writer has already introduced the information and does not intend to explain it again in full.
For example:
- As previously mentioned, our marketing strategy focuses on organic growth.
- As previously mentioned, all employees must complete the training module.
In both cases, the audience is expected to remember information presented earlier.
This expression functions as a referential transition phrase, helping connect ideas and improve the flow of communication.
When to Use “As Previously Mentioned”
The phrase is most useful when you need to:
- Refer back to earlier information
- Avoid unnecessary repetition
- Maintain coherence in writing
- Remind readers about important details
- Create smooth transitions between sections
In Business Emails
Professionals often use it when following up on discussions.
Example:
As previously mentioned, the revised proposal has been attached for your review.
In Reports
Reports frequently contain references to earlier sections.
Example:
As previously mentioned, market demand increased significantly during the third quarter.
In Presentations
Speakers use it to reinforce key points.
Example:
As previously mentioned, customer satisfaction remains our highest priority.
In Academic Writing
Researchers use similar references to connect arguments.
Example:
As previously mentioned, the study examined three primary variables.
Why Writers Use “As Previously Mentioned”
Strong communication depends on logical flow. Repeating the same information multiple times can make writing feel redundant.
Using “as previously mentioned” offers several benefits:
Improves Readability
Readers can follow ideas more easily when related points are connected.
Reduces Repetition
Instead of restating entire explanations, writers can briefly refer back to them.
Creates Cohesion
The phrase acts as a bridge between earlier and later information.
Reinforces Important Information
It reminds readers about key details without overwhelming them.
Enhances Professional Tone
In formal settings, the phrase sounds polished and organized.
Examples of “As Previously Mentioned” in Different Contexts
Understanding real-world usage helps clarify how the phrase works.
Workplace Communication
- As previously mentioned, the budget requires executive approval.
- As previously mentioned, all team members should submit reports by Friday.
- As previously mentioned, the client requested additional revisions.
Academic Writing
- As previously mentioned, the survey included 500 participants.
- As previously mentioned, data collection occurred over six months.
- As previously mentioned, the hypothesis was supported by the findings.
Customer Service
- As previously mentioned, your refund will be processed within five business days.
- As previously mentioned, tracking information has been sent via email.
Meetings
- As previously mentioned, the next phase begins in July.
- As previously mentioned, stakeholder feedback remains essential.
Formal Reports
- As previously mentioned, revenue increased by 12% year over year.
- As previously mentioned, operational costs declined during the reporting period.
Tone and Formality of “As Previously Mentioned”
One of the most common questions about this phrase concerns its tone.
Is It Formal?
Yes.
“As previously mentioned” is generally considered a formal expression.
It frequently appears in:
- Corporate communication
- Business correspondence
- Academic papers
- Research reports
- Government documents
- Legal writing
Is It Suitable for Casual Conversations?
Usually not.
In everyday speech, people often prefer simpler alternatives such as:
- As I said earlier
- Like I mentioned before
- As we discussed
- Remember when I said
- As noted earlier
Example Comparison
Formal:
As previously mentioned, the policy changes will take effect next month.
Casual:
Like I mentioned before, the policy changes start next month.
Both communicate the same idea, but the tone differs significantly.
Alternatives to “As Previously Mentioned”
Repeating the exact phrase too often can make writing sound mechanical. Good writers vary their language.
Common Alternatives
| Alternative | Formality Level | Best Use |
| As noted earlier | Formal | Reports and business writing |
| As stated above | Formal | Documents and articles |
| As discussed | Professional | Meetings and emails |
| As outlined earlier | Formal | Reports and presentations |
| As explained earlier | Neutral | Educational content |
| As mentioned before | Neutral | General writing |
| As indicated previously | Very formal | Academic and legal writing |
| As referenced earlier | Formal | Research and documentation |
| As I said earlier | Informal | Conversation |
| Like I mentioned before | Informal | Casual communication |
Example Variations
Instead of writing:
As previously mentioned, the project requires approval.
You could write:
- As noted earlier, the project requires approval.
- As discussed, the project requires approval.
- As outlined above, the project requires approval.
- As mentioned before, the project requires approval.
These alternatives help improve style and readability.
“As Previously Mentioned” vs Similar Expressions
Many learners confuse this phrase with other transitional expressions.
Comparison Table
| Phrase | Meaning | Tone | Typical Context |
| As previously mentioned | Refers to earlier information | Formal | Business and academic writing |
| As mentioned before | Refers to earlier information | Neutral | General communication |
| As discussed | Refers to a prior conversation | Professional | Meetings and emails |
| As noted earlier | References an earlier point | Formal | Reports and articles |
| As stated above | Refers to previous written text | Formal | Documents |
| As explained earlier | Refers to an earlier explanation | Neutral | Teaching and guides |
| Like I said before | Refers to earlier remarks | Informal | Casual speech |
Key Difference
“As previously mentioned” sounds more polished and professional than many alternatives, making it particularly suitable for workplace communication.
Common Mistakes When Using “As Previously Mentioned”
Although the phrase is straightforward, writers sometimes misuse it.
1. Referring to Information That Was Never Mentioned
Incorrect:
As previously mentioned, the software update will launch tomorrow.
If the update was never discussed earlier, the phrase becomes confusing.
Correct:
The software update will launch tomorrow.
2. Overusing the Phrase
Using it repeatedly can make writing sound repetitive.
Poor Example:
As previously mentioned, sales increased. As previously mentioned, costs decreased. As previously mentioned, profits improved.
Better:
Sales increased. Costs decreased, and profits improved accordingly.
3. Sounding Passive-Aggressive
In some emails, the phrase can unintentionally sound impatient.
Potentially Negative:
As previously mentioned, you must complete the form.
Friendlier:
Just a reminder that the form still needs to be completed.
4. Using It in Casual Situations
Formal language can feel unnatural in friendly conversations.
Instead of:
As previously mentioned, I’ll arrive at 7.
Use:
Like I said earlier, I’ll be there at 7.
5. Creating Redundancy
Avoid combining multiple similar expressions.
Awkward:
As previously mentioned earlier, the deadline remains unchanged.
Correct:
As previously mentioned, the deadline remains unchanged.
How to Use “As Previously Mentioned” in Professional Emails
Business emails are one of the most common places where the phrase appears.
Following Up
As previously mentioned, we are awaiting your approval before proceeding.
Reminding Someone
As previously mentioned, the invoice payment was due on May 15.
Referring to Prior Discussions
As previously mentioned during our meeting, the new strategy focuses on customer retention.
Sharing Updates
As previously mentioned, implementation will occur in phases.
Best Practice
Use the phrase sparingly and politely. If the email already contains multiple reminders, softer wording may improve the tone.
For example:
Instead of:
As previously mentioned, the report is overdue.
Try:
Just a friendly reminder that the report is still pending.
This sounds more collaborative and less confrontational.
How to Use “As Previously Mentioned” in Academic and Formal Writing
Academic writing values coherence and logical progression.
Researchers often refer readers back to previous sections.
Literature Review Example
As previously mentioned, prior studies focused primarily on urban populations.
Research Paper Example
As previously mentioned, the experiment consisted of three stages.
Thesis Example
As previously mentioned in Chapter 2, qualitative methods were selected for this study.
Formal Report Example
As previously mentioned, operational efficiency improved throughout the fiscal year.
In scholarly writing, similar phrases include:
- As noted above
- As discussed earlier
- As indicated previously
- As established earlier
- As outlined in the preceding section
These variations help maintain readability while preserving formal tone.
Real-Life Examples of “As Previously Mentioned”
Below are examples that mirror actual communication situations.
Example 1: Manager to Team
As previously mentioned, all project documentation should be submitted by Friday afternoon.
Example 2: Customer Support Representative
As previously mentioned, your replacement order has already been shipped.
Example 3: University Professor
As previously mentioned, the final examination covers Chapters 1 through 10.
Example 4: Consultant Report
As previously mentioned, customer acquisition costs rose during the second quarter.
Example 5: Project Proposal
As previously mentioned, stakeholder engagement is critical to project success.
Example 6: Marketing Presentation
As previously mentioned, social media remains our strongest acquisition channel.
These examples demonstrate how naturally the phrase fits professional communication.
Should You Use “As Previously Mentioned” in Modern Writing?
The answer depends on context.
Use It When:
- Writing formal emails
- Creating reports
- Drafting proposals
- Producing academic papers
- Preparing presentations
- Referring to earlier documented information
Avoid It When:
- Speaking casually
- Writing conversational content
- Creating friendly messages
- Using it repeatedly in the same document
Modern business writing often favors concise language. While “as previously mentioned” remains acceptable, alternatives such as “as discussed” or “as noted earlier” may sound more natural in some situations.
The key is balancing professionalism with clarity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “as previously mentioned” mean?
It means that the information being discussed has already been stated earlier in the conversation, document, presentation, or communication.
Is “as previously mentioned” formal?
Yes. It is generally considered a formal phrase commonly used in business, academic, legal, and professional writing.
Is “as previously mentioned” rude?
Not inherently. However, repeated use in reminder emails can sometimes sound impatient or passive-aggressive depending on the context and tone.
What can I say instead of “as previously mentioned”?
Common alternatives include:
- As noted earlier
- As discussed
- As mentioned before
- As stated above
- As outlined earlier
- As explained earlier
Can I use “as previously mentioned” in emails?
Yes. It is widely used in professional emails to refer to information discussed earlier.
Is “as previously mentioned” grammatically correct?
Yes. The phrase is grammatically correct and widely accepted in standard English.
Can I use “as previously mentioned” in casual conversation?
You can, but it may sound overly formal. Casual alternatives usually work better.
Is “as discussed” the same as “as previously mentioned”?
They are similar but not identical. “As discussed” specifically refers to a prior discussion, while “as previously mentioned” can refer to any earlier statement, whether spoken or written.
Why do professionals use “as previously mentioned”?
Professionals use it to maintain continuity, avoid repetition, improve clarity, and connect current information to earlier points.
How often should I use “as previously mentioned”?
Use it only when necessary. Excessive repetition can make writing sound stiff and redundant.
Conclusion
“As previously mentioned” is a formal and effective phrase used to reference information that has already been stated. It helps writers and speakers maintain coherence, reduce repetition, and create smooth transitions between ideas. The expression is especially common in business emails, reports, presentations, academic papers, and professional communication.
While it remains a valuable tool, strong writing also requires variety. Alternatives such as “as discussed,” “as noted earlier,” “as stated above,” and “as mentioned before” can often achieve the same goal while improving readability. By understanding the meaning, tone, context, and proper usage of “as previously mentioned,” you can communicate more clearly, professionally, and confidently in both written and spoken English.
