premature

Premature (adjective) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

IPA:

What does premature mean?

Occurring or developing before the expected or appropriate time.
"It would be premature to judge the project’s success at this stage."

Detailed Meaning of Premature

It indicates an event or condition that happens too soon, often implying that it is premature in relation to a typical or desired timeline. This term can apply to various contexts, such as premature birth, which refers to a baby being born before the full term of pregnancy is completed. In a broader sense, "premature" can refer to actions, decisions, or conclusions that are made hastily or prematurely, without proper consideration or sufficient information. It suggests that such actions or decisions are not yet fully developed or matured, potentially leading to negative consequences or inadequate outcomes. The concept of "premature" underscores the importance of patience, careful judgment, and allowing sufficient time for things to reach their natural or intended state of readiness.

Example Sentences for Premature

1. His premature arrival surprised everyone at the party.
2. She made a premature decision without considering the consequences.
3. The farmer's crops were premature and not ready for harvest.
4. The premature announcement led to a lot of confusion.
5. The book's release was premature, resulting in several errors in the first edition.
6. His premature grey hair gave him a distinguished look.

Origin and Etymology of Premature

The adjective 'premature' has its etymology rooted in the Latin word 'praematurus,' which is a combination of 'prae,' meaning 'before,' and 'maturus,' meaning 'ripe' or 'timely.' In Latin, 'praematurus' referred to something happening or developing before its expected or appropriate time. As the term transitioned into Old French and later into Middle English, it retained its core meaning of occurring or developing prematurely, meaning earlier than what is considered normal, expected, or appropriate. The etymology of 'premature' reflects its association with timing, emphasizing the idea that something has taken place or come into being before the usual or anticipated moment, often carrying connotations of untimeliness or unripeness.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the adjective premature:

early

overdue

belated

timely

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Premature

1. The doctors managed to save the premature baby with specialized care.
2. Their celebration was premature, as the game was not over yet.
3. The speculation about the company’s bankruptcy was premature.
4. He demonstrated premature excitement, not realizing there was more work to be done.
5. The software launch was premature and riddled with bugs.
6. Premature birth can lead to various health challenges.
7. His premature departure left us all in shock.
8. Premature conclusions can lead to misunderstanding.
9. Premature aging of skin can result from sun exposure.
10. The premature announcement caught everyone off guard.
11. Premature celebrations can jinx an outcome.
12. Premature decisions can have lasting consequences.
13. Her premature promotion surprised her colleagues.
14. Premature judgments can be unfair and harmful.
15. A premature bloom in spring can be vulnerable to frost.
16. Premature babies often require specialized care.
17. Premature disclosure of plans can lead to leaks.
18. Their relationship ended in a premature breakup.
19. Premature assumptions can undermine effective communication.
20. Premature optimization in coding can lead to inefficiencies.
21. Premature celebrations can lead to disappointment.
22. Premature retirement can leave one financially vulnerable.
23. His premature balding was a family trait.
24. Premature conclusions can hinder problem-solving.
25. Premature success may not be sustainable in the long run.