It was at once enlightening and affirming to learn that some of the instances of discrimination that I had THITHERTO encountered could be explained in terms of psychological theories and concepts.
It was at once enlightening and affirming to learn that some of the instances of discrimination that I had PREVIOUSLY encountered could be explained in terms of psychological theories and concepts.
Or, alternatively, should I not put such an adverb after the word had in this sentence?
Thanks for your help!
2007-10-15 07:12:35 · 3 answers · asked by Ofmettle 1 in Education & Reference ➔ Words & Wordplay
Use "previously".
Thitherto is a redundant amalgam of an obsolete word "thither" -- and really only used when you want to sound either archaic or unreasonably pretentious.
2007-10-15 07:15:59 · answer #1 · answered by coragryph 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
Previously
2007-10-15 07:16:17 · answer #2 · answered by Ted R 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Use previously. Thitherto is old-fashioned and sounds pompous. Even with academic writing you want your words to be accessible to your audience and not give them any ideas about you that have nothing to do with your work.
Regarding "had" ... That usage is called the past pluperfect tense. In the context you're using it in, I think it's appropriate. However, I think if you were going to say thitherto I would omit it. With previously it sounds better to the ear- to me, anyway.
2007-10-15 07:21:30 · answer #3 · answered by Behaviorist 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋