earlier
/ˈɜːliər/adverb★Beginner— at a time before now
general
at a time before now or before a specified time
The meeting started earlier than scheduled.
The meeting began before the planned time.
He finished his work earlier in the day.
He completed his tasks before the usual time.
💡
Often used to indicate something happened sooner than expected or planned.
Collocations
earlier than expectedsooner than anticipatedearlier in the dayat a time before now during the day
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related Phrases
💡Pro Tip
Time Reference
Use 'earlier' to refer to a time before now or before a specified time.
⚡Gold Rule
Adverb Usage
'Earlier' is primarily an adverb, but can function as an adjective in contexts like 'an earlier time'.
📖Word Origin
From Middle English 'erlier', from Old English 'ǣrlīce', from 'ǣr' (early) + '-līce' (adverb suffix).
📝Usage Notes
Can be used as an adverb or adjective (e.g., 'an earlier version'). Often contrasts with 'later' or 'after'.
Word Breakdown
earl
early
root-ier
comparative form
suffix-ly
adverb suffix
suffixEnglish Dictionary