of the distant past; "the early inhabitants of Europe"; "former generations"; "in other times"

expected in the near future; "look for an early end to the negotiations"

before the usual time or the time expected; "she graduated early"; "the house was completed ahead of time"

in good time; "he awoke betimes that morning"

intervention - A therapeutic strategy that combines early detection of hazardous or harmful alcohol use and treatment of those involved. Treatment is offered or provided before such time as patients might present of their own volition and in many cases before they are aware that their alcohol use might cause problems. It is directed particularly at individuals who have not developed physical dependence or major psychosocial complications.

SCHOOLS: The teachings of the historical Buddha Shakyamuni traditionally formed the basis for eighteen early schools (in reality there were more) differentiated in terms of locality, ritual practice, Vinaya (rules for monastic discipline) and particularly their philosophical understanding of Buddhism. They developed from around 3rd century BCE onwards. The THERAVADIN tradition derives from one of these, although in its present form it is a much later development. Other early schools (esp. Sarvastivada, Dharmaguptaka, Mahasanghika) were important in the development of other schools of Buddhism.

either a grape variety which ripens early or a wine which matures and develops rapidly