früher

Früher is a German adverb and, less commonly, a literary noun, used to refer to a time preceding the present moment or another referenced event. As an adverb, it characterizes a temporal relationship and is often translated as “earlier,” “in the past,” or “formerly.” In standard usage, it contrasts with später (later) and heute (today).

Etymology and forms: Früher derives from früh, meaning early. The form früh is the basic adjective, and the comparative form freut sich? No—früher is the standard comparative form used for temporal reference rather than the adjective itself. While primarily an adverb, Früher can appear as a noun in literary or philosophical contexts, such as das Früher, to denote “the past,” albeit this usage is less common in everyday speech.

Usage and examples: Früher is frequently employed to situate events in time, for example: „Früher war alles anders.“ It often appears in contrasts with später, „Früher oder später“ (sooner or later), or with phrases like „in der Vergangenheit/ früheren Zeiten“ to indicate longer historical periods. In everyday language, synonyms include damals, vorhin (for a more immediate past), and zuvor or vorher for sequence in time. The word can carry a nostalgic or evaluative tone, depending on context.

In media and culture: In German-language journalism, history writing, and literature, Früher may be used to frame discussions of memory, tradition, or social change. While clear and versatile, native usage tends to favor phrases such as „früher war …“ or „in der Vergangenheit,“ rather than treating Früher as a standalone time marker.