(of one or more out of a group of associated people) Of a greater age
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Existing or coming before in time or order
“Earlier reports of gunshots have not been confirmed.”
Completed before need or a milestone event
(attributive) In a time or period marked by the past
(of one or more out of a group of associated people) Of a greater age
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.”
Before an action or event
“For reasons mentioned earlier, I will not be able to attend.”
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
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