beginning of an epoch; initial period
Refers to the early stage or opening phase of a historical era, period, or significant span of time. Often used in formal or written contexts.
In the early Meiji period, many reforms were carried out.
This technology was invented in the early 20th century.
Compound of 初 (sho, 'first, beginning') and 葉 (yō, 'leaf, period'). The use of 葉 to mean 'period' or 'era' is an extension from the idea of a leaf as a segment or division, similar to its use in words like 前葉 (zen'yō, 'early part of an era').