an early date

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an early date" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a time that is soon or before a specified time in the future. Example: "We would like to schedule the meeting for an early date to ensure everyone can attend."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

From an early date, they were on the move westward.

The New York Times - Arts

The weakness of the opposition supports an early date.

The Economist

Take this snippet from an early date with the woman who will become his partner.

The New Yorker

They all hope that Taiwan and the mainland can be reunified at an early date.

The New York Times

He advocated that an early date be set for the end of Australian colonial rule.

The Guardian

Ms. Wu was happy when he volunteered the information on an early date.

The New York Times

Does anyone know how to explain their pain in a meaningful way on an early date?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

On an early date, Power answered a call from Holbrooke, who asked to speak to Sunstein.

The New Yorker

Fortune had good color from an early date, when color was still very difficult to print.

The New York Times - Arts

The association said Friday that it hoped to finalize details "at an early date".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

They set a date for luncheon--an early date because both of them had afternoon engagements.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Using "an early date" helps set expectations for promptness and efficiency, encouraging timely action from all involved parties.

Common error

Avoid using "an early date" when precision is required. If a specific date is necessary, provide it instead of using the general term.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an early date" functions as a noun phrase. It typically serves as an adverbial modifier, specifying the timing or timeframe of an action or event. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an early date" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase that indicates a preference for something to occur sooner rather than later. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, this phrase is frequently used in news media, encyclopedias, and scientific publications, and has a neutral register. When aiming for clarity and precision, consider using specific dates instead of this general term. The phrase serves to encourage prompt action and is useful in setting expectations for timely resolutions. Related alternatives include "a prompt date" or "a soon date".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a prompt date

Replaces 'early' with 'prompt', emphasizing quickness or immediacy.

a soon date

Substitutes 'early' with 'soon', focusing on the proximity in time.

a timely date

Replaces 'early' with 'timely', highlighting appropriateness for the occasion.

a quick date

Uses 'quick' instead of 'early', suggesting a short time frame.

an immediate date

Replaces 'early' with 'immediate', highlighting the urgency.

a prior date

Replaces 'early' with 'prior', focusing on precedence.

an expedited date

Emphasizes the speed and efficiency in scheduling the date.

an accelerated date

Highlights the speed at which the date is approaching.

a forward date

Emphasizes movement towards a future point in time.

an advanced date

Focuses on moving the date to an earlier point in the calendar.

FAQs

How can I use "an early date" in a sentence?

You can use "an early date" to indicate a preference for something to happen sooner. For instance, "We hope to finalize the agreement at "an early date"."

What's a good alternative to "an early date"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a prompt date", "a soon date", or "a timely date" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to use "an earlier date" or "an early date"?

"An earlier date" is used when comparing two specific dates, while "an early date" refers to a general preference for something to occur promptly. For example: "We had "an earlier date" scheduled, but had to reschedule."

What does "an early date" imply in a business context?

In a business context, "an early date" often implies efficiency and a desire to resolve matters quickly, signaling a proactive approach.