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All Site ContentJulius CaesarAct 5Scene 3
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"Brutus gave the word too early"
Historical Context
Act 5,
Scene 3
Lines 5-8

An explanation of the phrase "Brutus gave the word too early" in Act 5, Scene 3 of myShakespeare's Julius Caesar. 

Titinius

O Cassius, Brutus gave the word too early,
Who having some advantage on Octavius
Took it too eagerly. His soldiers fell to spoil,
Whilst we by Antony are all enclosed.

The word that Titinius fears Brutus has given too early is “havoc.” This would release Brutus’ soldiers to pursue the fleeing enemy, making them unavailable to come to Cassius’ aid. Cassius is in need of such aid because he is in danger of being surrounded by Antony’s forces.