early this time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "early this time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is happening sooner than it did previously or in a previous instance. Example: "I decided to submit my report early this time to avoid any last-minute issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

I'll just get out early this time.

The New York Times

Some employees are getting bonuses early this time.

The New York Times

There was no moving early this time — or quitting late.

The New York Times - Sports

You really need to get an early start; the sun sets early this time of year.

The New York Times

"I was able to catch it early this time around because I knew exactly what to look for," he said.

University of California, Berkeley

For the second straight game, the Heat pounced early, this time taking a 17-point lead in the first half.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

That and the frustration in Nagano have ignited the anxiety earlier this time.

The New York Times - Sports

The lead came earlier this time, only six minutes from the start.

Independent

It's too early to start that, Laws says, but they will probably start earlier this time.

The Guardian

PES 2016 arrives slightly earlier this time around, and there's no doubt it is a very solid football game.

The Guardian - Tech

Liverpool commenced their routine win earlier this time, puncturing Porto's optimism and tame resistance with their first attack.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "early this time" to highlight a change in timing compared to a previous situation. It's effective for emphasizing progress or a lesson learned, as in "I'll get out "early this time"".

Common error

Avoid using "early this time" when simply stating a fact about timing without comparing it to a past event. Ensure there's a clear prior instance to which you're contrasting the current timing. For example, don't say "The meeting is "early this time"" if there's no previous meeting for comparison.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "early this time" functions as an adverbial modifier, indicating when an action occurs in relation to a previous event or expectation. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is grammatically correct and serves to highlight a change in timing.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Science

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "early this time" is a grammatically sound and commonly used adverbial phrase that highlights a change in timing relative to a previous occurrence. As Ludwig AI confirms, the expression effectively emphasizes a shift in schedule, often to demonstrate improved planning or a proactive response. Found frequently in News & Media, its use extends to academia and informal conversations. When employing this phrase, ensure a clear point of comparison exists to maintain context and avoid ambiguity. Remember to select other possibilities such as "sooner than before" or "ahead of schedule now". Overall, "early this time" is a versatile tool for conveying adjustments in timing with precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sooner than before

Emphasizes the comparative aspect of time, highlighting that something is happening earlier in relation to a previous occurrence.

ahead of schedule now

Focuses on the progress relative to a planned timeline, suggesting advancement.

before the usual time

Highlights the variance from the typical or expected timing of an event.

in advance this instance

Indicates that something is done or occurs prior to a specific event or deadline.

previously in the past

Stresses the contrast with the timing of a previous event.

on the earlier side

Indicates that the event is happening at the beginning of the period.

at an earlier juncture

Focuses on the timing of event from the perspective of the current time.

with more haste now

Emphasizes the speed and urgency of the action being carried out this time.

at the opening this round

Suggests the event is happening during the beginning of something.

in the beginning this occasion

Emphasizes the temporal ordering of events.

FAQs

How can I use "early this time" in a sentence?

Use "early this time" to indicate that something is happening sooner than it did previously or was expected to. For example, "We started planning "early this time" to avoid the last-minute rush".

What phrases are similar to "early this time"?

Similar phrases include "sooner than before", "ahead of schedule now", or "before the usual time". The best choice depends on the specific context and what aspect of the timing you want to emphasize.

Is it ever incorrect to use the phrase "early this time"?

It's generally correct, but avoid using it if there's no prior instance to compare the timing to. The phrase implies a change or adjustment in timing based on past experience or expectations.

What's the difference between "earlier this time" and "early this time"?

"Earlier this time" emphasizes a comparison more directly. "Early this time" can sometimes imply a general earliness without a specific comparison, though comparison is implied by "this time".