Ahead of time: meaning, definitions and examples

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ahead of time

 

[ əˈhɛd əv taɪm ]

Idiom
Context #1 | Idiom

time management

Before the scheduled time; in advance. To do something ahead of time means to do it early or before the set deadline.

Synonyms

beforehand, early, in advance.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ahead of time

This phrase is used when something is done before a deadline or expected time. It often emphasizes being proactive or prepared.

  • We finished the project ahead of time.
  • Make sure to submit your application ahead of time to avoid any last-minute issues.
early

This word is used to indicate doing something before the expected or usual time. It often emphasizes being prompt or punctual.

  • I arrived at the meeting early.
  • It's good to wake up early to have a productive day.
in advance

This phrase is often used in formal or transactional situations to indicate that something is done or provided ahead of time, especially involving plans or payments.

  • Tickets must be purchased in advance.
  • Please inform us in advance if you need to cancel your booking.
beforehand

This word is used to describe doing something before a specific event or before something else happens. It is common in conversations about preparation.

  • Please let me know beforehand if you are going to be late.
  • She prepared all the materials beforehand.

Examples of usage

  • He arrived at the meeting ahead of time.
  • She finished her project ahead of time, so she had time to review it.
  • We need to prepare the presentation ahead of time to ensure it's perfect.

Translations

Translations of the word "ahead of time" in other languages:

🇵🇹 antecipadamente

🇮🇳 समय से पहले

🇩🇪 vorzeitig

🇮🇩 sebelum waktunya

🇺🇦 заздалегідь

🇵🇱 przed czasem

🇯🇵 事前に

🇫🇷 à l'avance

🇪🇸 antes de tiempo

🇹🇷 erken

🇰🇷 미리

🇸🇦 قبل الوقت

🇨🇿 předem

🇸🇰 vopred

🇨🇳 提前

🇸🇮 vnaprej

🇮🇸 á undan

🇰🇿 уақытынан бұрын

🇬🇪 დროის წინ

🇦🇿 vaxtından əvvəl

🇲🇽 antes de tiempo

Etymology

The phrase 'ahead of time' originated in the mid-19th century in English. It is a literal translation of the French phrase 'en avance'. The term has been widely used in time management contexts to emphasize the importance of being punctual and prepared. Over time, it has become a common idiomatic expression in English language.