prematurely
UK: ˌpreməˈtʃʊəli | US: ˌpriːməˈtʃʊrli
adv. before the usual or expected time; too soon
adv. in a hasty or underdeveloped manner
The word "prematurely" combines the Latin prefix "pre-" (meaning "before") with the Latin root "maturus" (meaning "ripe" or "timely"), later adopted into Middle English as "mature." The suffix "-ly" converts the adjective "premature" into an adverb. Originally used in biological contexts (e.g., fruit ripening), it expanded to describe actions or events occurring earlier than appropriate, reflecting a logical progression from physical to abstract timing.
The baby was born prematurely at seven months.
He retired prematurely due to health issues.
The project was launched prematurely, resulting in numerous errors.
Flowers bloomed prematurely during the unseasonably warm winter.
She criticized the decision as prematurely made without proper research.