Prematurely: meaning, definitions and examples

Add to dictionary

prematurely

 

[ ˌpriːməˈtjʊrli ]

Adverb / Adjective
Context #1 | Adverb

in a premature manner

occurring, coming, or done before the usual or proper time; too early; prematurely born babies have a higher risk of health problems

Synonyms

early, premature, untimely.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
prematurely

This is often used in situations where something happens before the expected time, suggesting it wasn't ready or fully developed. It can have a negative connotation.

  • The fruit fell from the tree prematurely.
  • They left the meeting prematurely.
early

This word is used to describe something occurring before the expected or usual time, but without necessarily implying something negative.

  • She arrived at the office early.
  • Early signs of spring are showing.
premature

This adjective is often used to describe something happening before the natural or appointed time, indicating it wasn't fully formed or ready. It usually carries a negative connotation.

  • The baby was born premature.
  • His decision was criticized as premature.
untimely

This is typically used to describe something happening at an inconvenient or inappropriate time, often implying misfortune or sadness. It also usually has a negative connotation.

  • His untimely death shocked everyone.
  • The interruption was untimely.

Examples of usage

  • He died prematurely at the age of 45.
  • She made a decision prematurely without considering all the facts.
  • The project was prematurely terminated due to lack of funding.
Context #2 | Adjective

before the natural time

occurring or done before the usual or proper time; too early; a premature statement; a premature infant

Synonyms

early, precocious, untimely.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
prematurely

This word is often used when something happens before the expected time, and it can carry a negative connotation, suggesting it happened too soon or was rushed.

  • He retired prematurely due to health issues.
  • The baby was born prematurely and needed special care.
early

This word is used to describe something that happens before the expected or usual time but doesn't necessarily imply a negative outcome.

  • She arrived at the meeting early to prepare her presentation.
  • We should leave early to avoid traffic.
untimely

This word is often used to describe something that happens at a time that is not suitable or expected, usually conveying a sense of being inappropriate or unfortunate.

  • Her untimely death shocked everyone.
  • The announcement came at an untimely moment, causing confusion.
precocious

This word is used to describe a young person who has developed certain abilities or talents at an earlier age than usual, and it typically has a positive connotation.

  • The precocious child could read by the age of three.
  • His precocious talent in music was evident from an early age.

Examples of usage

  • The premature announcement of the winner caused confusion.
  • She gave birth to a premature baby who needed special care.
  • The premature aging of the wine affected its quality.

Translations

Translations of the word "prematurely" in other languages:

🇵🇹 prematuramente

🇮🇳 असमय

🇩🇪 vorzeitig

🇮🇩 terlalu dini

🇺🇦 передчасно

🇵🇱 przedwcześnie

🇯🇵 早期に

🇫🇷 prématurément

🇪🇸 prematuramente

🇹🇷 erken

🇰🇷 조기에

🇸🇦 قبل الأوان

🇨🇿 předčasně

🇸🇰 predčasne

🇨🇳 过早地

🇸🇮 prezgodaj

🇮🇸 of snemma

🇰🇿 ерте

🇬🇪 ადრიანად

🇦🇿 vaxtından əvvəl

🇲🇽 prematuramente

Etymology

The word 'prematurely' is derived from the Latin word 'praematurus', meaning 'very early'. It first appeared in English in the early 17th century. The concept of something happening before the expected or proper time has been a part of human experience for centuries. Premature births, premature decisions, and premature aging are all examples of this phenomenon. The word has been used in various contexts to describe events, actions, and conditions that occur too early, often with negative consequences. Understanding the implications of premature actions can help individuals make more informed decisions in their lives.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,388, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.