as in ahead
so as to precede something in order of time
he had arrived earlier to take care of some preliminary matters
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for earlier
Adverb
-
Consider these approaches: • Introduce the topic early.—
Keith D. Dorsey,
Forbes.com,
15 July 2025 -
The state was previously doused by rains associated with what developed into Tropical Storm Chantal earlier this month.—
Richard Tribou,
The Orlando Sentinel,
15 July 2025
Adverb
-
The aftermath By Saturday’s end, volunteer efforts were already underway — organization and individual-led alike.—
Lily Kepner,
Austin American Statesman,
25 July 2025
-
Amid the ongoing tariff situation, which GM already anticipates will cost the company up to $5 billion this year, fluctuations in the supply chain and manufacturing strategies may further impede decisions surrounding how to approach warranty issues, Windau said.—
Jackie Charniga,
Freep.com,
25 July 2025
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Cite this Entry
“Earlier.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/earlier. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share