Synonyms for

Formerly

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

Definition

Formerly means in the past or previously.

Synonyms & similar words

atonetime erst once erstwhile previously earlier once before ago heretofore hitherto erstwhile sometime late quondam old past historical bygone antecedently aforetime

Synonyms by register

Formal

previously heretofore earlier antecedently

Informal

before once in the past ago

Literary

erewhile aforetime

Antonyms

currently presently now today henceforth subsequently hereafter

Common collocations

  • formerly known as
  • formerly occupied by
  • formerly a
  • formerly the
  • formerly served as
  • formerly held the
  • formerly employed as

Word family

adverb formerly

Usage note

This adverb indicates something that was true in the past but is no longer true. It is often used to describe a previous state, role, or name.

Example sentences

  1. He was formerly a firefighter before he became a police officer.
  2. The restaurant was formerly a bank.
  3. I formerly had a pet hamster named Bubbles.
  4. She was formerly married to John.
  5. My favorite restaurant was formerly located downtown.

Quotes

  • The only way to prove yourself is to be better than you were formerly.
  • I am formerly a journalist, so I like to ask a lot of questions.
  • The truth is always the truth, no matter how you formerly felt about it.

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the and that for you with was this are have not from

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