Untimely

/ʌnˈtaɪm.li/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Occurring at an inappropriate or unexpected time; premature.

His untimely arrival at the meeting caused confusion among the attendees.

Happening earlier than expected or desired, often with negative consequences.

The untimely death of the renowned actor shocked the entire community.

Inopportune; not fitting the occasion.

She made an untimely joke during the serious discussion, which was poorly received.

From the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'timely' meaning 'at the right time'.

untimely death

A death that occurs earlier than expected, often considered tragic.

untimely arrival

An arrival that disrupts or is unsuitable for the current situation.

untimely intervention

An intervention that happens at a moment that causes issues rather than solving them.

timely

Happening at the right or opportune time.

opportune

Well-timed; occurring at a favorable or useful time.

premature

Happening too soon or before the proper time.

Bad timing

That was a really bad timing to tell a joke.

Off-beat

His off-beat comments were just so untimely.