an earlier version of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an earlier version of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a previous iteration or draft of a document, software, or any other item that has undergone changes or updates. Example: "The report you received is based on an earlier version of the project proposal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

an earlier version of this appeared at westernjournalism.com.

Huffington Post

An earlier version of the EU.

The Guardian

An earlier version of the monument stands at Boston Common.

The New York Times - Arts

(An earlier version of the dance had its debut there).

The New York Times - Arts

An earlier version of this post misspelled SZA's name.

The New Yorker

An earlier version of this post..

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

*An earlier version of this article misspelled "Hagoromo".

The New Yorker

****An earlier version of this article misstated Bieber's age.

The New Yorker

*An earlier version of this post misidentified the victim's nationality.

The New Yorker

*An earlier version of this article misspelled Skillman Avenue.

The New Yorker

*An earlier version of this article misspelled Hagen's first name.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When indicating that a piece of writing has been updated or corrected, use "an earlier version of" to transparently acknowledge changes to your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "an earlier version of" when you actually mean the original or definitive version. The phrase implies subsequent changes or updates have occurred.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an earlier version of" functions as a determiner phrase, modifying a noun to specify a previous iteration or form of something. Ludwig shows it is frequently used to clarify that a particular piece of information or content has been updated or corrected.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an earlier version of" is a versatile determiner phrase used to indicate a previous iteration of something, commonly employed across various contexts, especially in news and media. As Ludwig confirms, the expression is grammatically correct and widely accepted. When using this phrase, ensure you're accurately conveying that a change or update has occurred and avoid confusing it with references to the original or definitive form. Understanding its purpose, register, and potential alternatives enhances clarity and precision in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a previous iteration of

Replaces "version" with "iteration" for a more technical feel.

a prior edition of

Substitutes "version" with "edition", suitable for publications or documents.

a preliminary form of

Replaces "earlier version" with "preliminary form", emphasizing the developmental stage.

the original draft of

Focuses on the initial writing stage, using "draft" instead of "version".

a prototype of

Emphasizes the experimental nature, common in engineering or software contexts.

an initial release of

Highlights the first public availability, often used for software or products.

the first cut of

Uses an informal term "first cut" to indicate a preliminary version.

a beta release of

Specifically indicates a test version of software.

a revised edition of

Implies changes have been made, making it a "revised edition".

the unedited form of

Highlights the lack of modifications, focusing on its raw state.

FAQs

How can I use "an earlier version of" in a sentence?

You can use "an earlier version of" to indicate that something has been updated or corrected. For example: "An earlier version of this article contained incorrect data."

What can I say instead of "an earlier version of"?

You can use alternatives like "a previous iteration of", "a prior edition of", or "a preliminary form of" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a earlier version of"?

No, it is incorrect. The correct phrasing is "an earlier version of". The article "an" is used because "earlier" begins with a vowel sound.

What's the difference between "an earlier version of" and "the latest version of"?

"An earlier version of" refers to a previous state, while "the latest version of" refers to the most current or up-to-date state.