These comparative and superlative forms (πρότερος and πρῶτος) built from πρό indicate 'former' versus 'later' relationships. While both words could describe spatial placement (front versus back), their primary use was temporal: former times, earlier generations, previous days, or prior marriages. The forms also carried evaluative force, indicating what has priority or comes first in importance. Homer used them for ancient heroes, while prose writers marked historical sequences. The neuter forms could function adverbially, meaning 'formerly' or 'before,' helping Greek writers establish clear temporal relationships in narrative.