previous opinion; earlier statement
Refers to an opinion or statement made earlier in a discussion or text. Often used in formal or written contexts to contrast with a current or later view.
New facts have come to light that overturn the earlier opinion.
He revised his previous statement and took a more moderate stance.
Compound of 前 (zen, 'before, previous') and 説 (setsu, 'opinion, theory'). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the meaning is transparent from its components.