It's earlier, either way (3)

I believe the answer is:

ere

I believe this clue is a double definition.

'it's earlier' is the first definition.
(synonyms)

'either way' is the second definition.

(Other definitions for ere that I've seen before include "Before (in poetry)" , "Old prior" , "Before, poetically" , "One who steals" , "Before (in time)" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Independent and The Globe and Mail.

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