verb HSK 3
to arrive early · early arrival
Meaning
早到 means to arrive before the scheduled or expected time. It combines 早 (early) and 到 (to arrive), forming a straightforward compound that describes punctuality in a positive sense—getting somewhere ahead of time.
Usage
Commonly used in everyday conversation about meetings, appointments, classes, or events. It carries a neutral to positive connotation, suggesting responsibility or enthusiasm. Often contrasted with 迟到 (to arrive late). Can function as a verb phrase or describe the state of early arrival.
Examples
- 01他每次开会都早到十分钟。.He arrives ten minutes early for every meeting.
- 02我今天早到了，所以先去喝杯咖啡。, .I arrived early today, so I went to get a cup of coffee first.
Characters
Common collocations
- 早到几分钟to arrive a few minutes early
- 提前早到to arrive early in advance
- 早到的人people who arrive early