B2adjective2K

UK/["/ˈfɔːmə(r)/"]/US/["/ˈfɔːrmər/"]/

Meaning of Former

that existed in earlier times

In simple words: Something that was true in the past but is not true now.

Former in a sentence

  • She is a former champion, having won several awards in her youth.
  • The former president addressed the nation in a televised speech.
  • He met with several former colleagues during the reunion.
  • In his former life, he was a successful artist before becoming an engineer.
  • She often reminisces about her former days as a student abroad.

How to use Former

Use 'former' to refer to someone who previously held a position or role, such as 'former president'. It's neutral and suitable for both spoken and written language, especially in professional contexts. Avoid using it in casual conversations where simpler words like 'ex' might feel more natural.

Grammar pattern

former + noun

Memory hint

Think of 'former' as a 'form' you used to have but no longer hold.

Related words

Collocations with Former

  • former president
  • former employee
  • former lover
  • former student
  • former leader

Synonyms for Former

  • past (3)

Opposites of Former

Common mistakes with Former

  • Using 'former' without a noun, e.g., saying 'He is a former' instead of 'He is a former teacher.'
  • Confusing 'former' with 'latter'; remember 'former' refers to the first item in a list.
  • Using 'ex-' instead of 'former' in formal contexts, where 'former' is preferred.

Former appears in

Former in other languages

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Frequently asked questions about Former

What does Former mean?

Something that was true in the past but is not true now.

What is the definition of Former?

that existed in earlier times

How do you use Former in a sentence?

She is a former champion, having won several awards in her youth.

Can you give another example of Former?

The former president addressed the nation in a televised speech.

What are synonyms for Former?

Common alternatives include past (3).

What is the opposite of Former?

Opposite meanings include current, present.

What words go with Former?

It commonly pairs with former president, former employee, former lover, former student, former leader.

What are common mistakes when using Former?

Using 'former' without a noun, e.g., saying 'He is a former' instead of 'He is a former teacher.' Confusing 'former' with 'latter'; remember 'former' refers to the first item in a list. Using 'ex-' instead of 'former' in formal contexts, where 'former' is preferred.

How do you pronounce Former?

US: /["/ˈfɔːrmər/"]/, UK: /["/ˈfɔːmə(r)/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Former?

Use 'former' to refer to someone who previously held a position or role, such as 'former president'. It's neutral and suitable for both spoken and written language, especially in professional contexts. Avoid using it in casual conversations where simpler words like 'ex' might feel more natural.

What CEFR level is Former?

"Former" is at B2 level on the CEFR scale.