earlier
/ˈɜːrliər/
ADJECTIVE
1. Occurring before another time or event
Happening, existing, or taking place before a specified time, event, or point in a sequence; comparative form of early.
1.1. Time and chronological order
Describes something that happened, existed, or was scheduled before another event or reference point in time.
Synonyms
- previous
- prior
- preceding
- former
- antecedent
- anterior
- foregoing
- early
Antonyms
Examples
- The earlier version of the report contained several errors.
- We discussed the proposal at an earlier meeting.
- The earlier chapters introduce the main characters and setting.
Related Words
- chronology
- sequence
- precedence
- precedent
- timeline
- history
- past
- former period
- subsequent event
1.2. Beginning and early stages
Describes something occurring or existing nearer to the beginning of a period, process, development, or historical sequence rather than at a later stage.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Examples
- The earlier stages of the project required extensive research.
- Scientists studied earlier forms of the language to understand its development.
Related Words
- beginning
- onset
- commencement
- inception
- development
- initial stage
- early phase
- origin
ADJECTIVE
2. Taking place before the expected or usual time
Happening or being done before the usual, scheduled, or anticipated time; sooner than expected.
2.1. Scheduling and expected events
Describes an event, appointment, arrival, or activity occurring before its scheduled or normally expected time.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Examples
- The store closed earlier than usual due to the holiday.
- The earlier delivery surprised everyone because the package was expected next week.
- The conference was moved to an earlier date.
Related Words
ADVERB
3. At a time before the present or another reference point
At a previous time or on an occasion before the present moment or the time being discussed.
3.1. Past events and previous occasions
Indicates that an action or event occurred before the present moment or before another event being discussed.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- afterward
- afterwards
- later
- subsequently
- thereafter
Examples
- She mentioned the important details earlier in the meeting.
- He wished he had studied the material earlier for the exam.
- I had seen that movie earlier, so I knew how it ended.
- As mentioned earlier, the project requires additional funding.
Related Words
- past
- history
- previous occasion
- prior experience
- retrospect
- former time
- bygone days
- memory
3.2. Doing something sooner than usual
Indicates that an action takes place before the usual, expected, or intended time, often emphasizing reduced waiting time or an advance in schedule.
Synonyms
- sooner
- beforehand
- in advance
- ahead of time
- early
- betimes
Antonyms
Examples
- They finished their work earlier than expected, allowing time for relaxation.
- The sun set earlier during the winter months.
- We should leave earlier to avoid the afternoon traffic.
- She arrived earlier than planned to prepare for the presentation.