Formerly

Definition

Formerly is an adverb referring to something that occurred or existed in the past.

Parts of Speech

• Adverb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfɔrmərli/
• Respelling: FOR-mer-lee (with "FOR" as in "fort," "mer" as in "her," and "lee" as in "see")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfɔːməli/
• Respelling: FAWR-muh-lee (with "FAWR" as in "fort," "muh" as in "sofa," and "lee" as in "see")

In both dialects, "formerly" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "FOR" or "FAWR." The pronunciation is similar across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "FOR-mer-lee" in American English and "FAWR-muh-lee" in British English.

Etymology

The word formerly is derived from the Old English term forma which means "at first," and the suffix -ly, which in this context, serves to turn an adjective into an adverb.

Derivatives

• Former (adjective)
• Formerness (noun)
• Formerliness (noun, rare)
• Foretime (noun, archaic)
• Erstwhile (adjective, synonym)

Synonyms

• Previously
• Once
• Before

Antonyms

• Currently
• Now
• Presently

Usage

"Formerly" is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to refer to something that existed or occurred in the past. It is often used in historical accounts, legal documents, and reports to indicate a change in status, location, or condition. The word can apply to people, places, organizations, and situations that have undergone transformation or rebranding.

Related Terms

• Previously
• Historically
• Once
• Ex- (prefix)
• Past

Detailed Definition

Adverb

• At an Earlier Time: Used to describe something that was true or existed at a previous time but is no longer the case.
  • Example: The building was formerly a school before it was converted into apartments.

• In a Previous Role or Condition: Refers to a prior status, role, or title that someone or something held.
  • Example: She was formerly known as the CEO of the company before stepping down.

• In the Past: Often used in historical writing to indicate that a place, institution, or person had a different identity or role in the past.
  • Example: The city was formerly the capital of the empire.