pre-verb·al /ˌpriː ˈvɜːbəl◂ $ -ɜːr-/adjectiveadj [only before noun] technical
SLhappening before a child has learned to speak 〔幼儿〕获得语言能力前的,开口说话前的
the pre-verbal stages
开口说话前的阶段
Examples from the Corpus
pre-verbal• Some constructs may reflect pre-verbal bases of organization which can not be accounted for by rational explanation.• Their pointing gestures and vocalisations will be video-recorded to allow detailed analyses to be carried out on the characteristics of pre-verbal communication.• An early start is good as parents can help with the programmes in the home, even at a pre-verbal stage.