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früher

earlier

adjective adverb FRUY-er Less Common
Time Time Expressions

Also means

formerly

Usage Note

früher is the comparative of früh ('early'), but as a standalone adverb it means 'in the past' or 'in the old days': früher war alles besser. As an adjective it means 'former', e.g. mein früherer Chef. Context separates the two senses.

Examples

"Früher habe ich hier gewohnt."

Natural Translation

I used to live here.

Literal Translation

Formerly have I here lived.

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