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.”

adverb

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.

Word forms

more prematurely comparative, most prematurely superlative

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He retired _____ due to a knee injury.

Etymology

From premature plus the adverb-forming suffix -ly.

Synonyms

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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

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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