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schedule
ahead of schedule
Earlier than a given deadline. Since the contractor and his crew completed the renovations ahead of schedule, we were able to move into the house before winter arrived. Repaying your loan ahead of schedule will save you money in the long term by reducing the amount of interest you'll have to pay.
*ahead of schedule
Fig. having done something before the time given on a schedule or before the expected time. (*Typically: be ~; finish ~.) I want to be able to finish the job ahead of schedule.
*behind schedule
having failed to do something by the appointed time, especially the time given on a written plan. (*Typically: be ~; fall ~; get ~.) We have to hurry and finish soon or we will fall behind schedule. The project is behind schedule by six months.
on schedule
at the expected or desired time. The plane came in right on schedule. Things have to happen on schedule in a theatrical performance.
slated to do something scheduled to do something
. (*Typically: be ~; have someone ~.) Mary is slated to go to Washington in the fall. We are slated to leave in November.
ahead of schedule
happening or done earlier than the time that was planned The sale will help us to repay the loan ahead of schedule.
Opposite of: behind schedulebehind schedule
happening or done later than the time that was planned The project is behind schedule because several people are off sick.
Opposite of: ahead of scheduleon schedule
happening or done at the time that was planned or intended The trains run pretty much on schedule, except when the weather is really bad.
on schedule
At the announced or expected time, as in Her first baby arrived right on schedule. Originally alluding to published railroad timetables, this expression dates from the late 1800s.