ahead of time
/əˈhɛd ɒv taɪm/
Meaning
This phrase means happening or done before a specific time, deadline, or event starts. It emphasizes being prepared, organized, or early. The tone is positive and recommends good planning and efficiency.
Examples
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If you finish your work ahead of time, you can leave early today.
If you finish your work ahead of time, you can leave early today.
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We booked our concert tickets months ahead of time to get the best seats.
We booked our concert tickets months ahead of time to get the best seats.
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Please let us know ahead of time if you cannot attend the meeting.
Please let us know ahead of time if you cannot attend the meeting.
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She likes to prepare her outfits for the week ahead of time.
She likes to prepare her outfits for the week ahead of time.
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The construction project was completed two weeks ahead of time.
The construction project was completed two weeks ahead of time.
Common Mistakes
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✗ You should register for the course head of time.
✓ You should register for the course ahead of time.
The phrase is 'ahead of time', not 'head of time'.
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✗ We arrived thirty minutes ahead of the time.
✓ We arrived thirty minutes ahead of time.
Do not use the definite article 'the' inside this fixed phrase. It is always 'ahead of time'.
Related Expressions
Practice
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It's always better to study for exams ___ rather than cramming.
💡 In advance, early.
Show answer
ahead of time
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They prepared the food ___ so they wouldn't be busy during the party.
💡 Before the event started.
Show answer
ahead of time