Earlier than this

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Earlier than this" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a time or event that occurred before the current point in discussion or reference. Example: "The meeting was scheduled for 10 AM, but I had to arrive earlier than this to prepare."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

Earlier than this it had been introduced into Canada and the United States, and it spread to India, Malta, and Argentina.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Earlier than this, possible intimations of symbolism become more difficult to accept.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Barrow would have lent on her harder and earlier than this.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Don't art academics study any history earlier than this before they do a PhD on the Fluxus movement?

The Guardian - Opinion

Some areas, including the location of Scott Reef, would likely experience annual bleaching between five and 15 years earlier than this.

The Guardian

Showing the last ten years' experience on your CV is generally sufficient, so you don't need to explain gaps earlier than this.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

Cases of norovirus shot up earlier than expected this winter across Europe.

Independent

He actually started throwing earlier than usual this winter, just to get his arm used to the activity again.

The New York Times - Sports

An HPA spokeswoman said cases of norovirus had risen earlier than expected this season, a trend seen across Europe and other parts of the world.

The Guardian

On the sex front, I gave Elizabeth an all-female kiss, but I got Margaret home safely earlier than in this film.

The Guardian - Film

If a transaction is finished earlier than expected, this can only slightly increase its value.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "earlier than this", ensure the context clearly establishes the reference point to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify the date, event, or study you are comparing against.

Common error

Avoid using "earlier than this" without explicitly stating or implying what "this" refers to. Otherwise, the phrase becomes vague and confusing for the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Earlier than this" functions as an adverbial phrase of time, modifying a verb or clause by specifying when something occurred in relation to a known reference point. Ludwig AI confirms that the expression is correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

32%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Earlier than this" is a versatile comparative phrase used to indicate that something occurred before a specific reference point. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically correct and suitable for diverse contexts. It is most frequently found in scientific and news media, with a neutral register, and functions as an adverbial phrase of time. Ensure the context clearly defines the reference point. Alternatives include "prior to this" and "before this time", with slight differences in formality and emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Prior to this

Replaces "earlier" with "prior", emphasizing precedence in time.

Before this time

Specifies the temporal reference more explicitly.

Previously to this

A more formal and slightly less common alternative.

Ahead of this

Suggests being in front of a specific timeframe or event.

In advance of this

Implies preparation or anticipation before the reference point.

Preceding this

Highlights the order of events, with something coming before.

Sooner than this

Focuses on the aspect of time elapsing more quickly.

In anticipation of this

Highlights expectation of something happening.

Beforehand

A concise adverb that encapsulates 'before this'.

Up to this point

Focuses on all events leading up to a specific moment.

FAQs

How can I use "Earlier than this" in a sentence?

Use "Earlier than this" to indicate something that happened or existed before a specific point in time mentioned in the context. For example, "The study began in 2010, but similar research was conducted "earlier than this"."

What's a more formal way to say "Earlier than this"?

A more formal alternative is "prior to this". It maintains a similar meaning but is suitable for academic or professional writing.

Is "Earlier than this" appropriate for academic writing?

Yes, "Earlier than this" can be used in academic writing, especially when comparing timeframes or research periods. However, ensure that the reference point is clearly defined. A slightly more formal alternative is "previously to this".

What can I say instead of "Earlier than this" to emphasize anticipation?

If you want to emphasize anticipation, consider using "in advance of this" or "in anticipation of this". These phrases highlight preparation or expectation before the mentioned point.