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Sooner Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sooner

[ˈsuːnər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

in time

Comparative of soon; earlier in time; before now.

Synonyms

before, earlier, prior.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sooner

Generally used to indicate that something happens or would happen earlier than expected.

  • I'd like to finish this task sooner rather than later
  • He showed up sooner than we thought
earlier

Used to refer to a previous point in time or to indicate that something time-specific happened ahead of some other point in time.

  • I finished my project earlier than expected
  • She arrived earlier than everyone else
before

Used to indicate an earlier time in relation to a specific point or event.

  • I have seen this movie before
  • Finish your homework before you go out
prior

Formal alternative to 'before', often used in organizational, legal, or academic contexts to mean something happened earlier.

  • Prior to joining the company, she worked in marketing
  • The meeting was rescheduled to a prior date

Examples of usage

  • He had better sooner than later.
  • I'd sooner walk than take a taxi.
Context #2 | Noun

Oklahoma

A native or inhabitant of Oklahoma.

Synonyms

Oklahoman.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sooner

Used as a nickname for people from Oklahoma, specifically referring to the settlers who entered the territory during the Land Run of 1889. It carries historical connotations and can be somewhat neutral or positive depending on the context.

  • He proudly calls himself a Sooner
  • The football team is named the Oklahoma Sooners
Oklahoman

Used to describe a person from the state of Oklahoma or something related to the state. It is generally positive or neutral and used in both formal and informal contexts.

  • She is an Oklahoman by birth
  • The Oklahoman culture is very rich

Examples of usage

  • He is a Sooner from birth.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • The phrase 'The sooner, the better' is a common proverb emphasizing early action for better outcomes.
  • A famous football saying is 'Better sooner than later,' highlighting the importance of promptness in sports strategy.
  • US states like Oklahoma have embraced the term, lending it to the nickname 'Sooners' for their early settlers.

Psychology

  • In behavioral psychology, the concept of 'sooner' can relate to reinforcement schedules where quicker rewards can lead to better motivation.
  • People often exhibit a 'sooner is better' mindset, preferring immediate gratification over delayed rewards.
  • Decision-making studies show people may choose quicker options even if they are less beneficial due to impatience.

Time Management

  • In productivity, 'sooner' signifies the benefits of starting tasks early to reduce stress and enhance performance.
  • 'Sooner' can be a strategy in project management to encourage team members to begin work ahead of deadlines.
  • Good time management often reinforces the idea that starting tasks sooner leads to greater success.

Literature

  • In poetry and literature, 'sooner' is frequently used to convey urgency, often highlighting a character's desire for immediacy.
  • Famous works, such as Robert Frost's 'Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening', can suggest themes of urgency versus contemplation, relating to the idea of time.
  • Wilbur Wright famously used the concept of 'sooner' in his writings on aviation, promoting the urgency of advancements in technology.

Origin of 'sooner'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Sooner' comes from the Middle English word 'sone,' which means 'soon'.
  • The suffix '-er' is often used to denote comparison, making 'sooner' imply 'more soon'.
  • The word has been used in English since at least the 12th century.

The term "Sooner" originated during the Oklahoma Land Run of 1889. Some settlers entered the land before the official start time, earning them the nickname "Sooners". Over time, the term became associated with the people of Oklahoma, particularly the University of Oklahoma athletic teams.

See also: soon.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,313, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.