Which of the following prefixes means "before"?

The prefix that means "before" is "ante-." This prefix comes from Latin and is commonly used in medical terminology and various scientific fields to indicate something that occurs prior to a certain point in time or location.

For example, terms such as "antepartum" refer to the period before childbirth, and "antecedent" relates to an event that comes before another. Understanding this prefix is essential for interpreting medical terms accurately, as it provides context that can affect clinical understanding and decision-making.

The other prefixes carry different meanings: "pro-" typically denotes favoring or in front of, "re-" suggests repetition or backward motion, and "sharp-" is not a standard prefix used in medical terminology. Knowing these distinctions helps clarify the appropriate use of prefixes in medical contexts.