früher
Translation
earlier, formerly, previously
Examples
Kannst du bitte früher kommen?
Can you please come earlier?
Früher habe ich hier gewohnt.
I used to live here.
Grammar Patterns
((...)) ((früher)) ((als ...)) earlier than... He is coming earlier than expected.
((Früher)) ((...)) Formerly, ... Früher war alles anders.
Similar Words
ehemals, einst (for 'formerly'); zeitiger (for 'earlier'); Antonyms: später, heute
Etymology
The comparative form of 'früh' (early). The '-er' suffix functions like the '-er' in 'earlier'.
Memory Tips
It has two primary meanings: 1. Comparative: 'früh' + '-er' means 'more early'. 2. Temporal: Think 'in earlier times' to recall the meaning 'formerly'.