The phrase "ahead of" refers to being in front or prior to something in time or location. There are several synonyms that can be used to express a similar meaning. These synonyms include "before," "in advance of," "prior to," and "preceding." "Before" indicates that one thing happened or was done sooner than another. "In advance of" suggests that something was done ahead of schedule or in preparation for something that is yet to come. "Prior to" indicates that something happened or was done before another event. "Preceding" is an adjective that describes something that comes before or precedes another thing. These synonyms can be used interchangeably with "ahead of" to convey a similar sense of time or location.