Synonyms for

Premature

Verb / ˌpri:mʌˈtʃʊr / Another word for premature — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Premature means happening or developing too soon or before the expected time.

Synonyms & similar words

previous untimely fullterm early untimely unseasonable inopportune precocious premicious immature unripe green unfinished half-baked undeveloped unfledged unformed embryonic nascent incipient budding germinal incipient

Synonyms by register

Formal

untimely precocious hasty precipitate

Informal

too soon early quick rushed

Literary

antediluvian nascent

Antonyms

late delayed tardy belated overdue postponed

Common collocations

  • premature death
  • premature birth
  • premature aging
  • premature optimization
  • premature ejaculation
  • premature decision

Word family

noun prematurity
adverb prematurely

Usage note

Often used to describe events happening earlier than expected or desired, particularly in contexts like birth, death, or aging. Can also refer to actions taken too soon, before proper preparation.

Example sentences

  1. The flowers died because of the premature frost.
  2. The premature announcement caused confusion.
  3. The premature baby needed to stay in the hospital for a few weeks.
  4. The premature end of the movie left the audience disappointed.
  5. The premature celebration ended with a loss for the team.

Quotes

  • 'Premature optimization is the root of all evil.' - Donald Knuth
  • 'Premature success is the most dangerous kind; the second most dangerous is success delayed.' - William Davenant
  • 'Premature victory is always dangerous.' - Gustave Le Bon

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