timely

[ tahym-lee ]

adjective

, time·li·er, time·li·est.

1. occurring at a suitable time; opportune; well-timed:

   Our priority is to identify threats against the U.S. and provide accurate, timely warnings.

2. occurring within an expected time frame; prompt:

   To ensure timely delivery, orders with multiple products may ship separately.

3. Archaic. early.

adverb

1. seasonably; opportunely.
2. Archaic. early or soon.

timely

/ ˈtaɪmlɪ /

adjective

1. at the right or an opportune or appropriate time
2. an archaic word for early

Derived Forms

• ˈtimeliness, noun

Other Words From

• time·li·ness noun
• pre·time·ly adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of timely¹

First recorded before 1000; Middle English tim(e)liche, Old English tīmlīce (adverb); time, -ly

Synonym Study

See opportune.

Example Sentences

“September 5,” which has earned strong buzz since its back-to-back premieres at the Venice and Telluride film festivals, has only become more timely in the wake of last year’s Oct.

From Los Angeles Times

Coroner Crispin Oliver concluded it was "highly likely" Mr Morris, who suffered a cardiac arrest, would have survived had available specialist medical treatment been applied in a "timely manner".

From BBC

"This advancement can help refine weather forecasts and risk assessments, providing timely warnings and enhancing the resilience of coastal communities and infrastructure. "

From Science Daily

The Department of Health says it recognises the importance of delivering high standard, equitable and timely access to cardiac rehabilitation across the Trusts.

From BBC

Without that power, Trump wrote, “we will not be able to get people confirmed in a timely manner.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• appropriate
• convenient
• prompt
• proper
• up-to-date
• up-to-the-minute