Early: meaning, definitions and examples

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early

 

[ ˈərli ]

Adjective / Adverb
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Adjective

time

happening or done before the usual or expected time

Synonyms

premature, prompt, timely

Examples of usage

  • She was an early riser, always awake before the sun.
  • The early bird catches the worm.
  • We arrived early to avoid the crowds.
  • The meeting was scheduled for early afternoon.
  • He made an early decision to pursue his passion.
Context #2 | Adverb

time

before the usual or expected time

Synonyms

ahead of time, in advance, prematurely

Examples of usage

  • She arrived early for the interview.
  • He finished his work early and went home.
  • The store opens early on weekends.

Translations

Translations of the word "early" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cedo

🇮🇳 जल्दी

🇩🇪 früh

🇮🇩 awal

🇺🇦 рано

🇵🇱 wcześnie

🇯🇵 早い (hayai)

🇫🇷 tôt

🇪🇸 temprano

🇹🇷 erken

🇰🇷 일찍 (iljjik)

🇸🇦 مبكر (mubakkir)

🇨🇿 brzy

🇸🇰 skoro

🇨🇳 早 (zǎo)

🇸🇮 zgodaj

🇮🇸 snemma

🇰🇿 ерте

🇬🇪 ადრეული (adreuli)

🇦🇿 tezdən

🇲🇽 temprano

Word origin

The word 'early' has roots in Old English 'ærlīce', which means 'early, soon'. It has been used in the English language for centuries to describe things that happen before the expected or usual time. The concept of being early has always been valued in various cultures and societies, emphasizing the importance of punctuality and preparedness. Over time, 'early' has become a common word in everyday language, reflecting the significance of time and timeliness in human activities.

See also: earlier, earliest.

Word Frequency Rank

With position #262, this word is vital for basic English fluency. It appears very frequently in everyday language and should be among the first words you learn and actively use.