an earlier period

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an earlier period" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a time frame that occurred before the current one being discussed. Example: "The findings from the study were consistent with those from an earlier period, suggesting a long-standing trend."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

It was a remnant of an earlier period of elegance.

The New York Times - Travel

In other words, it's a hangover from an earlier period.

The Guardian

One of the parts seems to go back to an earlier period in Mr. Drew's work.

The New York Times - Arts

Today's stand-up coasters recall an earlier period of design and innovation.

The New York Times

His novels are action-packed, usually featuring a strong hero in an earlier period.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Or, in pictures that take the then-contemporary political situation and transpose it to an earlier period.

The Guardian - Film

Or a home may have become a memorial — albeit an unconscious one — to an earlier period in their lives.

The New York Times

Art from an earlier period, by contrast, was still mouldering away in attics, junk shops and museum storerooms.

The Guardian - Arts

Instead it would rely on accounting rules for "carry-over" from an earlier period and international carbon credits.

The Guardian

The five-part ensemble, an invention of an earlier period, is the "dark sheep of the family," he added.

The New York Times - Arts

"We are acquiring more Latin American art but from an earlier period that builds on our previous collection.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing historical trends, use "an earlier period" to clearly delineate the time frame you are referencing. For example: "Economic growth in the 21st century contrasts sharply with the stagnation observed in "an earlier period" like the 1970s."

Common error

Avoid vague references to time; instead, specify "an earlier period" with relevant dates or events to provide clarity and avoid confusion. Instead of: 'Things were different in the past' use: 'Things were different in "an earlier period", specifically before the industrial revolution'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an earlier period" functions as a temporal specifier, indicating a time frame that precedes the one currently under discussion. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

29%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Wiki

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an earlier period" serves as a temporal marker used to reference a time before the present, facilitating comparisons and historical analyses. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. The phrase is versatile, appearing in news, encyclopedias, and scientific publications. When writing, use it to create clarity in temporal references, avoiding vague language. Consider related phrases like "a previous era" or "a prior time" for variety, or "the early period" if you are referring to the initial stages of something. By following these guidelines, you can effectively use "an earlier period" to provide temporal context in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a previous era

Replaces "period" with "era", emphasizing a distinct time in history.

a prior time

Uses "prior" instead of "earlier", indicating something that came before.

a former age

Substitutes "period" with "age" and "earlier" with "former", conveying a sense of the past.

a bygone era

Replaces both words to evoke a sense of something old and past.

a past phase

Swaps "period" for "phase", highlighting a stage of development.

an ancient epoch

Emphasizes the great age of the "period" in question.

a historical stage

Focuses on the historical context of the "period".

a preceding interval

Replaces "period" with "interval", specifying a duration of time.

a vintage time

Adds a connotation of classic or old-fashioned quality.

a primeval age

Refers to a very early or original time, usually ancient.

FAQs

How can I use "an earlier period" in a sentence?

Use "an earlier period" to refer to a specific time frame that precedes the current one under discussion. For example: "The architectural styles of this building reflect influences from "a previous era"."

What's a more formal way to say "an earlier period"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "a prior time" or "a former age" to maintain a sophisticated tone.

Is it correct to use "an earlier period" when talking about recent events?

Yes, "an earlier period" can refer to both distant and recent times, as long as it precedes the current timeframe. For instance, you could say, "Compared to "a recent past", the economic climate has significantly shifted."

What is the difference between "an earlier period" and "the early period"?

"An earlier period" refers to any time before the present, while "the early period" typically refers to the initial stages of a specific era or event. The distinction lies in the specificity: "the early period" is more defined.