Cool MateFormerly vs Once
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
| Formerly | Once | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | in the past; before now | one time |
| Register | formal | - |
| CEFR level | B2 | A1 |
| Part of speech | adverb | adverb |
| Usage notes | Use 'formerly' to describe something that was true in the past but is no longer the case. It is more formal than saying 'used to'. Avoid in casual conversations. | Use 'once' to refer to something happening a single time in the past. It's neutral and often used in storytelling. It wouldn't be appropriate in highly formal writing. |
Frequently asked questions: Formerly vs Once
What's the difference between "Formerly" and "Once"?
"Formerly" means: in the past; before now "Once" means: one time
When should I use "Formerly" and "Once"?
"Formerly" is formal.
Are "Formerly" and "Once" the same CEFR level?
"Formerly" is at B2, "Once" is at A1 on the CEFR scale.