early
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early
Happening at an early point in time; earlier than usual or expected.
Dank der frühzeitigen Warnung konnten alle Bewohner das Gebäude sicher verlassen.
Thanks to the early warning, all residents were able to leave the building safely.
premature
Before the actually intended or normal end; premature.
Er ging nach einer langen Karriere frühzeitig in den Ruhestand.
After a long career, he took early retirement.
The word is made up of 'früh' (early) and 'zeitig' (timely). 'Zeitig' is derived from 'die Zeit' (time). So 'frühzeitig' literally means 'at an early time', which makes it easy to remember.
Eine frühzeitige Planung des Urlaubs kann viel Stress ersparen.
Early planning of a vacation can save a lot of stress.
'Frühzeitig' can stand as an adjective before a noun or as an adverb describing a verb. As an adverb, it answers the question 'Wann?' (When?).
Eine frühzeitige Abreise ist notwendig.
An early departure is necessary.
In the meaning 'at an early point in time', it is often used in medical or preventive contexts. Typical combinations are 'frühzeitige Diagnose' (early diagnosis), 'frühzeitige Erkennung' (early detection), or 'frühzeitige Förderung' (early support/development).
Bei vielen Krankheiten ist eine frühzeitige Diagnose entscheidend für den Heilungserfolg.
For many diseases, an early diagnosis is crucial for successful treatment.
When something happens before the normal end, 'frühzeitig' is often connected with phases of life or career. Common phrases are 'frühzeitiger Ruhestand' (early retirement), 'ein frühzeitiger Tod' (a premature death), or 'ein frühzeitiger Abbruch' (an early discontinuation) of one’s studies.
Der frühzeitige Tod des Autors hinterließ ein unvollendetes Werk.
The author’s premature death left behind an unfinished work.
early
Früh and frühzeitig can both refer to a time earlier than usual or expected. Früh describes this time in general. Frühzeitig typically relates it to an expected process or a possible problem and often emphasizes that acting early is helpful or forward-looking.
Wir buchten die Reise frühzeitig, bevor die günstigen Plätze ausverkauft waren.
We booked the trip early, before the inexpensive seats had sold out.
Wir buchten die Reise früh, schon mehrere Monate vor der Abfahrt.
We booked the trip early, several months before departure.
