varhaisemmin

Varhaisemmin is a Finnish adverb meaning “earlier” or “more early.” It is used to indicate that something happened at an earlier point in time than a reference point, and it commonly appears in comparative constructions with kuin (than). In everyday speech, aikaisemmin is often more common for general statements about time, while varhaisemmin can carry a nuance of sequence, development, or scheduling in formal or written contexts.

The word is formed from varhainen (early) with the adverbial comparative suffix -mmin, producing a form that emphasizes a greater degree of early timing. As with other Finnish adverbs of time, varhaisemmin can modify verbs or clauses to specify when an action occurs relative to another event.

Usage notes include that varhaisemmin is most appropriate when the emphasis is on relative timing within a narrative, analysis, or schedule. It can convey that something occurred sooner in a process, in a timeline, or in preparation than previously expected or planned.

Examples:

- Tiedote julkaistiin varhaisemmin kuin suunnittelimme.

- Tutkimus julkaistiin varhaisemmin kuin odotettiin.

Related terms and alternatives include aikaisemmin (earlier, more commonly used for general time references) and varhain (early, often used for moments in time or developmental stages). Varhaisemmin thus occupies a stylistic niche in Finnish, offering a way to stress earlier timing in formal or precise contexts.