Definitions
- Referring to a past event that occurred at a specific time or moment. - Used to indicate that something was true in the past but is no longer true. - Talking about a singular or unique occurrence that happened in the past.
- Referring to a former or previous time or state. - Talking about something that used to exist or be true but is no longer the case. - Describing someone who held a previous position or status.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words refer to a past time or state.
- 2Both words suggest that something has changed or is no longer true.
- 3Both words can be used to describe people, places, or things.
What is the difference?
- 1Usage: Once is more commonly used than erstwhile in everyday language.
- 2Time frame: Once refers to a specific moment or event in the past, while erstwhile refers to a more extended period or state.
- 3Connotation: Once is neutral in tone, while erstwhile has a slightly formal or literary connotation.
- 4Function: Once can be used as an adverb, conjunction, or preposition, while erstwhile is primarily used as an adjective.
- 5Scope: Once can refer to a wide range of events or situations, while erstwhile is typically used to describe people or things that have undergone a significant change.
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Remember this!
Once and erstwhile are synonyms that both refer to a past time or state. However, once is more versatile and commonly used, while erstwhile has a slightly formal or literary connotation and is primarily used as an adjective to describe people or things that have undergone a significant change.
