Early

Definition

Early is an adjective and adverb. As an adjective, it describes something occurring before the usual or expected time, or situated near the beginning of a period. As an adverb, it refers to actions or events happening before the expected time.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Adverb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɜrli/
• Respelling: UR-lee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɜːli/
• Respelling: UR-lee

Etymology

The word "early" originates from the Old English "ærlice," which means "soon" or "promptly," derived from "ær" meaning "before" or "soon." The term has maintained its basic meaning of being before a usual time or near the beginning.

Derivatives

• Earlier (adjective/adverb)
• Earliness (noun)
• Earlybird (noun)
• Earliest (adjective/adverb)
• Early-on (adverb)

Synonyms

• Premature
• Initial
• Timely

Antonyms

• Late
• Delayed
• Belated

Usage

The term "early" is commonly used to describe actions or events that happen before the expected time, as in "She arrived early for the meeting." It can also refer to a stage near the beginning of a period, as in "In the early 2000s."

Related Terms

• Premature: Happening before the usual or expected time.
• Prompt: Done quickly or without delay.
• On-time: Occurring at the expected time, opposite of "late."

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Happening or done before the expected or usual time: Describes something occurring ahead of schedule.
  • Example: "The guests arrived early."
• Near the beginning of a period or process: Refers to being positioned or occurring in the initial stages of a period.
  • Example: "In the early days of summer, the weather is mild."

Adverb

• Before the expected or usual time: Refers to an action occurring sooner than anticipated.
  • Example: "She woke up early to prepare for the trip."