Earlier Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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earlier
[ˈɪr·li·ər ]
Definitions
in time
Happening or done before the usual or expected time.
Synonyms
beforehand, previously, prior.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| earlier |
Used to refer to an event or time that happened before the current moment, often in the same day or near past.
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| beforehand |
Used when something is done or occurs before a specific event or situation, often to prepare or plan ahead.
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| previously |
Used to indicate something that happened at an undefined time in the past, typically further back than 'earlier'.
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| prior |
Typically used formally to indicate something that happened before another event or time; often used in official or written contexts.
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Examples of usage
- I saw him earlier today.
- She had met him earlier in the day.
comparative
Existing or occurring before in time or order.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| earlier |
To indicate something that happened before a specific point in time, often used in comparison to the current moment or another event.
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| prior |
To indicate something that occurred before a particular event or time, often emphasizing the order or sequence, also used in formal contexts.
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| former |
To refer to something or someone in the past, typically contrasted with the current situation or another item/person. Often used to talk about positions, titles, or relationships.
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| previous |
To denote something that happened before the current one, commonly used in sequences like events, jobs, or instances.
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Examples of usage
- The earlier version of the software had some bugs.
- She preferred the earlier movies in the series.
time
A period before the present time or event.
Synonyms
beforehand, previously, prior.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| earlier |
This word is used when referring to something that happened before the present time, often with a focus on a specific point or period. It can be used in both informal and formal contexts.
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| previously |
Use this in formal and informal contexts to talk about something that happened at an unspecified time before the current moment. Often used in writing or storytelling.
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| beforehand |
This is used when referring to something that happened before a particular event or time. It often implies preparation or planning and is common in both formal and informal situations.
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| prior |
This term is typically used in formal contexts to indicate something that happened before another event. Often found in legal, business, or academic settings.
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Examples of usage
- The earlier of the two events happened last week.
- The earlier you start, the better the result.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, arriving earlier is associated with being polite and prepared, demonstrating respect for others' time.
- The concept of 'time' varies widely across cultures; some places prioritize punctuality while others are more flexible.
- Proverbs like 'the early bird catches the worm' highlight the advantages of acting sooner rather than later.
Science
- Research shows that people who wake up earlier may have better mental health and improved productivity.
- Circadian rhythms, or our body's internal clock, influence not just sleep patterns but when we feel most alert and capable.
- Early exposure to light in the morning helps regulate our biological clocks, promoting a healthier lifestyle.
Psychology
- Studies indicate that our ability to perceive and react to time can affect our stress levels and overall well-being.
- People who plan ahead and prioritize 'earlier' actions often experience less anxiety about deadlines and obligations.
- The perception of 'earlier' can be subjective; some individuals may feel time moves slower or faster depending on their activities.
Literature
- Earliest works of literature often reflect on time, with authors pondering the nature of the past and its impact on the present.
- In poetry, 'earlier' moments can evoke nostalgia and longing, capturing the fleeting essence of time.
- Classic stories often use flashbacks to explore 'earlier' events, revealing characters' backgrounds and motives.
Origin of 'earlier'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old English term 'earlier,' which is related to the word 'ear' meaning 'before.'
- Originally, the term was used to describe time periods that were closer to the past, emphasizing their position relative to others.
- Its usage has evolved over centuries, retaining the core idea of precedence in timing.
The word 'earlier' has its roots in the Middle English word 'erli,' which comes from the Old English word 'ǣrlīce.' This word is a combination of 'ǣr' (before) and 'līċ' (like). Over time, the word evolved to its current form, 'earlier,' in Modern English. The concept of time and order has always been essential in human communication, and the word 'earlier' serves to express that notion effectively.