English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology

adverb Uncommon

prematurely

pree-muh-TYOOR-lee

Prematurely (adverb) means In a way that happens too early, before the proper time. Example: “He retired prematurely due to a knee injury.”

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adverb

1

In a way that happens too early, before the proper time.

"He retired prematurely due to a knee injury."

"The election was called prematurely, before all votes were counted."

How to use prematurely

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe adverb form of premature — doing or happening something too soon.

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Word forms

Comparative: more prematurely
Superlative: most prematurely

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He retired _____ due to a knee injury.

Etymology

From premature plus the adverb-forming suffix -ly.

Synonyms

untimely

Antonyms

belatedly punctually

Related words

early soon exactly premature timely duly belatedly punctually

Rhymes for prematurely

rely comely lonely timely lovely homely widely lively lately rarely barely likely

See all rhymes for prematurely →

Frequently asked questions

What does “prematurely” mean?

The word “prematurely” means in a way that happens too early, before the proper time. In plain terms, the adverb form of premature — doing or happening something too soon.

How do you pronounce “prematurely”?

“Prematurely” is pronounced pree-muh-TYOOR-lee (/ˌpɹiːməˈtjʊə(ɹ)li/ in IPA).

How do you use “prematurely” in a sentence?

Here is “prematurely” used in a sentence: “He retired prematurely due to a knee injury.”

What is the opposite of “prematurely”?

The opposite of “prematurely” — its antonyms — are belatedly and punctually.

What part of speech is “prematurely”?

“Prematurely” is an adverb.

Is “prematurely” a common word?

“Prematurely” is an uncommon word in modern English.

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early soon exactly premature timely duly belatedly punctually

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial