Pre-existing vs. Preexisting – Which is Correct?

Both “pre-existing” and “preexisting” are grammatically correct and widely accepted spellings for something that existed before a particular event or time. While the hyphenated form is common, the closed compound “preexisting” is often favored in modern style guides, such as the AP Stylebook, for its conciseness and as a general trend in English prefixation.

Pre-existing or Preexisting – Which is Correct?

The choice between “pre-existing” and “preexisting” primarily comes down to stylistic preference rather than grammatical correctness. Both forms are valid in American English and convey the same meaning: something that existed prior to a specific point or event. The difference lies in the use of a hyphen.

Many contemporary style guides, including the Associated Press (AP) Stylebook, lean towards omitting hyphens in compound words formed with common prefixes like “pre-,” unless ambiguity would result or the root word is capitalized. Therefore, “preexisting” is frequently seen as the more modern and streamlined spelling. However, “pre-existing” remains entirely acceptable, especially in contexts where clarity or traditional usage is prioritized.

Word	Part of Speech	Meaning	Example
pre-existing	Adjective	Existing before a particular time, event, or condition.	Her pre-existing medical condition required special attention.
preexisting	Adjective	Existing before a particular time, event, or condition.	The contract covered all preexisting warranties.

How to Use Pre-existing

“Pre-existing” functions as an adjective, describing a noun that was in existence prior to a specified point. It’s commonly used in formal and technical contexts, such as legal documents, medical reports, and insurance policies, where the precise timing of existence is crucial. The hyphen helps to clearly delineate the “pre-” prefix from the root word “existing,” which some writers prefer for readability, especially when the prefix might otherwise blend confusingly with the root word.

Example 1: The patient disclosed a pre-existing heart condition during the intake process.

Example 2: They had to overcome several pre-existing structural issues in the old building.

Example 3: The software update resolved a pre-existing bug that affected user logins.

What are the different forms of Pre-existing?

“Pre-existing” is primarily used as an adjective. The verb form is “pre-exist,” and its present participle is “pre-existing” (when used as a verb, e.g., “The idea was pre-existing in his mind”). However, its most common and idiomatic usage is as a compound adjective.

Etymology of the word Pre-existing

The word “pre-existing” is formed by combining the Latin prefix “pre-” (meaning “before”) with the English word “existing” (the present participle of “exist,” from Latin existere, “to step forth, appear, exist”). The hyphenated form emphasizes the separate elements of the compound, indicating something that came into being prior to another event or time.

For a broader understanding of how prefixes shape meaning, explore the distinctions between post and pre.

How to Use Preexisting

“Preexisting” also functions as an adjective, conveying the exact same meaning as “pre-existing”: something that existed before a specific moment. This closed compound form is increasingly preferred in modern writing, particularly in journalistic and academic contexts that follow style guides advocating for fewer hyphens. It contributes to a cleaner, more streamlined appearance in text and is generally considered equally clear as its hyphenated counterpart.

Example 1: The insurance policy did not cover preexisting medical conditions.

Example 2: Archaeologists discovered a preexisting settlement beneath the Roman ruins.

Example 3: The company inherited several preexisting contracts when it acquired the smaller firm.

What are the different forms of Preexisting?

Like “pre-existing,” “preexisting” is predominantly used as an adjective. The corresponding verb is “preexist,” and its present participle is “preexisting” (e.g., “The concept was preexisting in ancient philosophy”). Its most common application, however, is as a compound adjective.

Etymology of the word Preexisting

The word “preexisting” shares the same etymological roots as “pre-existing,” combining the Latin prefix “pre-” (before) with “existing” (from Latin existere). The only difference is the absence of the hyphen, which reflects a stylistic evolution in English towards closing up compound words formed with common prefixes over time, assuming no loss of clarity.

Related Concepts

Understanding hyphenation rules for prefixes is key when deciding between forms like “pre-existing” and “preexisting.” Generally, prefixes like “pre-,” “re-,” “un-,” “co-,” and “non-” are joined directly to the main word without a hyphen. For example, “precaution,” “rebuild,” “unhappy,” “cooperate,” and “nonprofit.”

However, hyphens are typically retained in these situations:

• To avoid doubling a vowel or tripling a consonant (e.g., “pre-empt,” “re-enter”).
• When the prefix is attached to a proper noun or adjective (e.g., “pre-Raphaelite,” “un-American”).
• To avoid confusion with another word (e.g., “re-cover” meaning to cover again, vs. “recover” meaning to get well).
• When the prefix stands alone or applies to multiple words (e.g., “pre- and post-operative”).

In the case of “pre-existing” vs. “preexisting,” neither a doubled vowel nor a risk of confusion with another word is present, which is why many style guides advocate for the closed form “preexisting.” The hyphen in “pre-existing” is largely a matter of tradition or a preference for visual separation.

Examples from Media and Literature

• “The new healthcare law aimed to prevent insurers from denying coverage based on pre-existing conditions.” (News Report)
• “He carried a preexisting resentment towards authority figures, which colored his every interaction.” (Literary Fiction)
• “While the team developed innovative solutions, they were constantly battling pre-existing technological limitations.” (Technical Manual)
• “The artist’s work often explored the idea of preexisting harmony in nature, even amidst chaos.” (Art Critique)
• “The detective found that the motive was not a sudden impulse but stemmed from a long pre-existing family feud.” (Crime Novel)

Practice Exercises

Choose the correct word to complete the sentence.

1. The architect had to account for some ______ structural weaknesses in the old bridge. (pre-existing / preexisting)
2. Many insurance policies have clauses regarding ______ medical conditions. (pre-existing / preexisting)
3. Her ______ knowledge of the subject gave her an advantage in the debate. (pre-existing / preexisting)
4. The committee reviewed the ______ agreements before signing the new contract. (pre-existing / preexisting)
5. Despite the new management, some ______ problems in the department remained unresolved. (pre-existing / preexisting)

Answer Key

1. pre-existing / preexisting (Both are acceptable, with “preexisting” often preferred in modern styles.)
2. pre-existing / preexisting (Both are acceptable, with “preexisting” often preferred in modern styles.)
3. pre-existing / preexisting (Both are acceptable, with “preexisting” often preferred in modern styles.)
4. pre-existing / preexisting (Both are acceptable, with “preexisting” often preferred in modern styles.)
5. pre-existing / preexisting (Both are acceptable, with “preexisting” often preferred in modern styles.)

Pre-existing and Preexisting Synonyms

Synonym	Definition
Prior	Existing or coming before in time, order, or importance.
Earlier	Occurring or done before the usual or expected time.
Foregoing	Going before; preceding.
Antecedent	A thing or event that existed before or logically precedes another.
Previous	Existing or occurring before in time or order.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: Is “pre-existing condition” always hyphenated in official documents?
While “pre-existing condition” is a very common and well-understood phrase, especially in medical and insurance contexts, the use of the hyphen can vary. Many official documents, particularly those adhering to specific style guides, may opt for “preexisting condition.” Consistency within a document or organization is usually the most important factor.

Question 2: Why do some style guides prefer “preexisting” over “pre-existing”?
The preference for “preexisting” stems from a general trend in modern English to close up compound words formed with common prefixes when no ambiguity or awkwardness results. This approach aims for conciseness and a cleaner visual presentation in text, aligning with guidelines from stylebooks like the AP Stylebook, which generally advises against unnecessary hyphens.

Question 3: Can “pre-exist” or “preexist” be used as a verb?
Yes, “pre-exist” or “preexist” can function as a verb, meaning “to exist before something else.” For example, “Did the concept of infinity pre-exist human thought?” However, its usage as a verb is less common than its adjectival form, “pre-existing” or “preexisting.”

Conclusion

In the debate between “pre-existing” and “preexisting,” both forms are grammatically sound and widely recognized. The decision to use one over the other largely depends on stylistic preference and adherence to a particular style guide. While “pre-existing” maintains a traditional hyphenated structure, “preexisting” represents a modern trend towards closed compounds, often favored for its conciseness.

Pro Tip: For professional writing, especially in formal or published contexts, always check the specific style guide (e.g., AP, Chicago, MLA) relevant to your field or publication. If no specific guide is mandated, choose one form and maintain consistency throughout your document to ensure clarity and uphold your professional reputation.