Prematurely
ˌpriːməˈtʃʊərli
Definitions
At a time earlier than the normal or expected time; before the due time.
ˌpriːməˈtʃʊərli
Happening or done too early or before the usual or expected time
The flowers bloomed prematurely due to the warm weather.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're baking cookies, but you take them out of the oven before they're fully cooked. That's like doing something prematurely—it’s too early, so the cookies are still doughy. For example, "They decided to prematurely cancel the concert before many tickets were even sold."
👶 For kids: Happening before it's supposed to happen, like when you open your presents before Christmas!
More Examples
The company prematurely launched its new product, leading to technical issues.
He retired prematurely, feeling he still had more to offer.
She concluded the investigation prematurely without gathering all the facts.
How It's Used
"The baby was born prematurely, requiring special care."
"He prematurely announced his retirement before the official date."
From the Latin word 'praematurus' (too early), from 'prae' (before) and 'maturus' (ripe, mature). The word developed to signify something happening before the expected or proper time.
The word 'prematurely' started to appear in English texts in the 17th century, often referring to events happening before the expected time.
Memory tip
Think of a clock that's running fast. The event is happening 'prematurely'—before the right time.