timelier

Timelier is the comparative form of the adjective timely. It describes something that is more timely than another thing, meaning more prompt, more appropriate to the current time, or more closely aligned with a deadline or event. Timely refers to happening at the right time; timelier emphasizes a greater degree of that quality.

Etymology and form: Timely derives from time with the suffix -ly. The comparative can be formed as timelier, or more timely. In modern formal writing, many style guides prefer more timely, but timelier is a valid comparative found in dictionaries and older or more literary usage.

Usage: Timelier is more likely to appear in contexts where a concise, direct comparison is needed. It can convey a stronger sense of immediacy than simply saying more timely. In contemporary prose, some editors treat timelier as slightly cumbersome and opt for more timely for clarity, especially in formal documents.

Examples: A timelier warning could have reduced the impact of the incident. The timelier release of the report helped stakeholders respond quickly. In many cases, however, teachers, editors, or journalists would prefer the phrase more timely for smoother prose.

Related terms: timely (the base adjective), timeliness (the quality of being timely), punctual (on time in a strict sense), opportune (well-timed in a favorable moment).