Synonyms for

Early

Verb / ˈɜ:li: / Another word for early — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

happening or done before the usual or expected time; near the beginning of a period of time

Synonyms & similar words

middle toosoon aheadoftime late betimes earlyon other former premature untimely prompt quick swift precocious previous advance forward prematurely timely ahead preliminary premier primary initial incipient first soon fast

Synonyms by register

Formal

initial preliminary nascent rudimentary

Informal

quick prompt ahead of time on time

Literary

primeval dawn earliest

Antonyms

late delayed tardy behind overdue postponed

Common collocations

  • early bird
  • early stages
  • early warning
  • early retirement
  • early on
  • early development
  • early morning

Word family

noun earliness
adverb early

Usage note

The adverb 'early' can modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs. As an adjective, it typically precedes the noun it modifies.

Example sentences

  1. I wake up early to go to school.
  2. The birds start singing early in the morning.
  3. We arrived early for the movie and got popcorn.
  4. She finished her homework early and had time to relax.
  5. The store opens early on the weekends.

Quotes

  • The early bird catches the worm. - English proverb
  • Early to bed and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise. - Benjamin Franklin
  • The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now. - Chinese proverb

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