Definitions
- Referring to a previous time or state of being. - Describing a past position or status that is no longer held. - Used to indicate a change from a previous name or identity.
- Referring to an event or action that occurred before a specific time. - Describing something that happened in the past, but is no longer the case. - Used to indicate a change from a previous situation or condition.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words refer to something that happened or existed in the past.
- 2Both words can be used to indicate a change from a previous situation or condition.
- 3Both words are adverbs that modify verbs or verb phrases.
What is the difference?
- 1Usage: Formerly is more commonly used to describe a previous position or identity, while previously is more commonly used to describe a past event or action.
- 2Time frame: Formerly refers to a more distant past than previously, which refers to a time before a specific point in time.
- 3Connotation: Formerly can imply a sense of finality or permanence, while previously is more neutral and does not carry the same connotation.
- 4Formality: Formerly is more formal than previously, which is more commonly used in everyday language.
- 5Position in sentence: Formerly is often used at the beginning of a sentence, while previously can be used in various positions within a sentence.
Remember this!
While both formerly and previously refer to something that happened or existed in the past, they have different connotations and usage. Formerly is more formal and commonly used to describe a previous position or identity, while previously is more neutral and commonly used to describe a past event or action. Additionally, formerly refers to a more distant past than previously, which refers to a time before a specific point in time.
