|
Existing or coming before in time or order
“Earlier reports of gunshots have not been confirmed.”
Having been referenced or stated earlier
“Now that I've said that, allow me to apologize for the grandiloquence and pomposity of that earlier paragraph.”
Having been or happened in the distant past
Completed before need or a milestone event
Of a greater age (in comparison)
Comparative for of, relating to, belonging to, or occurring in, a former time (near the beginning)
“Paleontologists speculate that birds were descended from early dinosaurs.”
Comparative for belonging or happening near the beginning of a particular period
“The band's early recordings feature a rawness not found in their more recent tracks.”
Comparative for happening or done before the usual or expected time
“Temperatures are colder than usual, and we appear to be experiencing an early winter.”
Comparative for completed or done with efficiency and speed
“We will need to make an early statement before innuendo takes over the narrative.”
At some time in the past
“This was certainly the case earlier, but not any more.”
Before an action or event
“He had to arrive earlier so that he could pay his respect to the royal father.”
Comparative for prior to the expected time
“The snow came early that year.”
Comparative for in or after a short time
“The medication should start to take effect early.”
Comparative for immediately, in a prompt manner
“It would be best if you got here early.”
Related Words and Phrases
|
