earlier

1. 1
   before nowadverb

   At a time before now, or before another point in the past.

   Like saying 'a little while ago' about something that already happened.

   I called you earlier, but you didn't pick up.

   We talked about that earlier in the meeting.

   UsageOften with a time: earlier today, earlier in the day.

   Similarpreviously, before, beforehand

   Oppositelater, afterward, subsequently

   Note
2. 2
   previousadjective

   Happening or existing at a time before another one.

   An earlier draft of the letter was much longer.

   Her earlier books were set in small towns.

   UsageUse it before a noun: an earlier draft, her earlier books.

   Similarprevious, prior, former, preceding

   Oppositelater, subsequent, future

   Note
3. 3
   sooner than usualadverb

   Comparative form of early: at a time before another time, or before the usual or expected time.

   The bus came earlier than usual this morning.

   Try to get up earlier so you aren't rushed.

   UsageOften with than: the bus came earlier than usual.

   Similarsooner

   Note
4. 4
   adjective

   Comparative form of early. Use it to compare which of two things came first.

   We caught an earlier train to beat the crowds.

   The earlier appointment works better for me.

   Note

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