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Definitions

sooner

[soo-ner] / ˈsu nər /
ADJECTIVE
beforehand
Synonyms
STRONGEST
earlier
STRONG
ahead
WEAK
advanced ahead of time already ante antecedently before before now fore in advance in anticipation precedently precocious previous previously
ADVERB
before
Synonyms
STRONGEST
ahead back previously since
WEAK
afore aforetime ante antecedently anteriorly before present ere fore former formerly forward heretofore in advance in days of yore in front in the old days in the past past precendently previous up to now
Antonyms
WEAK
after afterward behind later
ADVERB
rather
Synonyms
STRONGEST
willingly
WEAK
alternately alternatively as a matter of choice by choice by preference first in lieu of in preference just as soon more readily more willingly much sooner
Antonyms
WEAK
extremely insignificantly little violently

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Quantum investors have faced a whirlwind few months, marked by a string of public listings, technical breakthroughs, and a warning that quantum’s disruptive power may come to fruition sooner than anticipated.

From Barron's • Apr. 8, 2026

Vessels coming to load up are unlikely to enter via the strait any sooner than a “just in time” logistics basis, “at risk of becoming trapped if hostilities resume.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 8, 2026

He expects results this summer, if not sooner.

From Slate • Apr. 6, 2026

He said Rough & Tumble will end the day he does — or sooner, if artificial intelligence renders Kavanagh and his role as host, news-gatherer and California guide obsolete.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 5, 2026

No sooner had I calmed the dogs again than the bull appeared on the brow of the hill.

From "Black Star, Bright Dawn" by Scott O'Dell