adjective
- happening or done before the usual or expected time
- near the beginning of a period of time
- happening or existing in the first part of someone’s life or career
adverb
- before the usual or expected time
- near the beginning of a period of time
Examples
- She arrived early for the meeting.
- The early morning sun was beautiful.
- He showed talent in his early years as a musician.
- We need to leave early to avoid traffic.
- The early chapters of the book were confusing.
- She was an early supporter of the movement.
- The flight departed early due to good weather.
- Early detection of the disease is important.