# timely

/ˈtaɪmɫi/ (US) · /tˈaɪmli/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/timely
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. at the right time

adjective · CEFR B2

happening at a time that is useful or helpful.

For teachers: occurring at an opportune or appropriate time to achieve a desired effect.

- The rain was very timely because the farmers' crops were starting to die.
- The government's intervention provided a timely boost to the economy just as consumer confidence began to falter.

### 2. done quickly or on time

adjective · CEFR C1 · Formal

done without delay or within the allowed time limit.

For teachers: done or occurring sufficiently early or at the proper time; often used in professional contexts regarding deadlines.

- The lawyer made sure to give a timely response to the court's request.
- Failure to provide a timely notice of appeal may result in the permanent forfeiture of the client's right to challenge the verdict.

Usage: Often used in legal or administrative writing to describe filings or responses.

### 3. early or soon

adverb · CEFR C2 · Archaic

happening early or in good time.

For teachers: occurring early, quickly, or in a seasonable manner.

- The travelers arrived timely at the station before the storm began.
- He rose timely to begin his journey, hoping to reach the city gates before the midday heat became unbearable.

## Examples

- The doctor gave me some timely advice about my health.
- The government's timely intervention prevented the local bank from closing during the financial crisis.
- While the report was expected later in the month, its timely release allowed the committee to address the safety concerns before the new law was finalized.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.