What's the difference between before and theretofore?

Before


Definition:

  • (prep.) In front of; preceding in space; ahead of; as, to stand before the fire; before the house.
  • (prep.) Preceding in time; earlier than; previously to; anterior to the time when; -- sometimes with the additional idea of purpose; in order that.
  • (prep.) An advance of; farther onward, in place or time.
  • (prep.) Prior or preceding in dignity, order, rank, right, or worth; rather than.
  • (prep.) In presence or sight of; face to face with; facing.
  • (prep.) Under the cognizance or jurisdiction of.
  • (prep.) Open for; free of access to; in the power of.
  • (adv.) On the fore part; in front, or in the direction of the front; -- opposed to in the rear.
  • (adv.) In advance.
  • (adv.) In time past; previously; already.
  • (adv.) Earlier; sooner than; until then.

Example Sentences:

Theretofore


Definition:

  • (adv.) Up to that time; before then; -- correlative with heretofore.

Example Sentences:

  • (1) Pseudomonas putrefaciens should theretofore be retained as a single species and characteristics for identifying the various groups within the species are listed.
  • (2) Generally speaking, the news media don't lament the theretofore bright futures of young men (or women) convicted of other violent crimes, such as the killing of girlfriends or executing down-on-their-luck job-hunters .