Synonyms for

Former

Verb / ˈfɔ:rmɜ: / Another word for former — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

belonging to or occurring in an earlier time; previous

Synonyms & similar words

previous quondam late onetime erstwhile latter other old early sometime previous past earlier prior erstwhile ex- old late one-time quondam sometime whilom erewhile lapsed bygone departed foregoing hitherto preceding previously

Synonyms by register

Formal

previous preceding erstwhile prior

Informal

old past ex-

Literary

foregone bygone

Antonyms

current present subsequent future later new next

Common collocations

  • former colleague
  • former president
  • former employee
  • former partner
  • former residence
  • former glory
  • former Yugoslavia

Word family

adjective former
adverb formerly

Usage note

Often used to describe someone or something that held a position or state in the past but no longer does. Can sometimes be confused with 'formally' which means in a formal manner.

Example sentences

  1. I used to live in a different house, but now I live in my former house.
  2. My mom's former job was as a nurse.
  3. The former president was very popular.
  4. I saw my former best friend at the mall.
  5. I used to play the guitar, but it's now just a former hobby.

Quotes

  • The only thing we know about the future is that it will be different. - Peter Drucker
  • The future is not what it used to be. - Laura Riding
  • The best way to predict your future is to create it. - Abraham Lincoln

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