What it means
に先立ち means “before” or “prior to” an important event, action, or process. It presents the following action as something done in advance of that event, often as preparation, an announcement, or a formal procedure. It attaches to a noun or a verb in the dictionary form and is especially common in formal writing, official announcements, speeches, and business contexts.
Usage note
に先立ち is formal and somewhat stiff, so it is uncommon in casual conversation. The related form に先立って can be used in similar contexts and is generally more flexible, while simple expressions such as 前に are more natural in everyday speech.
How to use it
予算案の審議に先立ち、委員長が概要を説明しました。
Before deliberation on the budget proposal, the committee chair explained the outline.
式典を開始するに先立ち、司会者が注意事項を伝えました。
Before starting the ceremony, the master of ceremonies conveyed the important instructions.
予算案の審議に先立ち、委員長が概要を説明した。
Before deliberation on the budget proposal, the committee chair explained the outline.
式典を開始するに先立ち、司会者が注意事項を伝えた。
Before starting the ceremony, the master of ceremonies conveyed the important instructions.