B2adverbformal10K+

Formerly

UK /["/ˈfɔːməli/"]/US /["/ˈfɔːrmərli/"]/

Definition

in the past

In simple words: in the past; before now

Examples

  • Namibia, formerly known as South West Africa
  • I learnt that the house had formerly been an inn.
  • John Marsh, formerly of London Road, Leicester, now living in France

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.

Grammar pattern

standalone adverb

Memory hint

Sounds like 'form-er-ly' — think of how something used to be before it changed.

Collocations

  • formerly a leader
  • formerly known
  • formerly used

Synonyms

  • previously
  • formerly known as
  • once

Antonyms

  • currently
  • now

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'formally' — 'formerly' relates to the past, while 'formally' relates to official contexts.
  • Omitting it when describing past roles or states, which can lead to ambiguity.