ago
ago(时间段 + ago,从现在往回,口语书面均可)
previously
previously(书面正式,在此/那之前:previously unknown = 此前未知的)
The company merged with its main competitor two years ago, creating the largest firm in the industry.
该公司两年前与主要竞争对手合并,创建了业内最大的企业。
The site was previously used as a factory before being converted into a cultural centre.
该场地此前曾用作工厂,后被改建为文化中心。