Formerly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
⏳
formerly
[ˈfɔːmərli ]
Definitions
in the past
Formerly is an adverb that means in the past, or in earlier times. It is used to indicate that something was true or the case before, but is not anymore.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| formerly |
Used to describe something that happened or existed at an earlier time, often in a formal or written context.
|
| previously |
Used to refer to events or conditions existing at an earlier time, commonly in both formal and informal contexts.
|
| earlier |
Used to refer to a time before the present, often in casual conversation.
|
| once |
Used to indicate a single occurrence in the past or a former state, often with a sense of nostalgia or storytelling.
|
Examples of usage
- He was formerly a lawyer before he became a politician.
- They formerly lived in New York, but now they reside in Los Angeles.
in the past
Formerly is also used to indicate a previous name or title of a person or thing.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| formerly |
Used to indicate that something existed or happened in the past, but no longer exists or happens now. Often used in formal or official contexts.
|
| previously |
Refers to something that happened or existed before now, often used to compare current and past conditions or statuses. Suitable for formal scenarios.
|
| earlier |
Indicates something happened before a certain point in time, commonly compared to a later event. Used in both formal and informal settings.
|
| once |
Signifies an event or condition that happened at some point in the past, particularly if it happened only one time or was a condition that is no longer true.
|
Examples of usage
- London was formerly known as Londinium during Roman times.
- The company was formerly called XYZ Corporation.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Grammar
- It is used as an adverb to refer to a previous state or condition.
- In sentences, it's often placed at the beginning or middle to clarify when something happened.
- It can also contrast with 'currently', emphasizing the difference between past and present.
Cultural Use
- Many historical documents use 'formerly' to indicate names or titles that were once held but have changed.
- In biographies, it helps readers understand how a person's life has transformed over time.
- The term is common in legal documents to denote previous conditions or status.
Literature
- Authors often use 'formerly' to create a sense of nostalgia or to reflect on characters’ pasts.
- It can serve as a powerful tool in storytelling, shaping the reader's understanding of character development.
- In poetry, the word evokes a sense of time that is both fleeting and impactful, often emphasizing change.
Psychology
- Reflecting on things that were formerly can be important for memory recall and cognitive processing.
- Understanding how one's identity or circumstances have formerly been can aid in personal growth.
- It often shapes how individuals perceive their present by understanding their past.
Origin of 'formerly'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'former', which means 'before' or 'earlier'.
- It entered the English language in the late 14th century, showing a long history of usage.
- It originally described actions or states that had changed over time.
The word 'formerly' originated from the Middle English word 'formere', which was derived from the Old English word 'forma', meaning 'first in order'. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century. Over the years, 'formerly' has retained its meaning of indicating something that was the case in the past.
See also: amorphic, conform, deform, deformed, form, formal, formality, formally, formation, formative, formatter, formed, former, formic, forming, formless, forms, malform, malformation, multiformity, preformative, reform, unformed.