What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
once
Example
I once visited Paris when I was younger. [once: adverb]
Example
Once upon a time, there was a princess who lived in a castle. [once: preposition]
Example
I once had a pet hamster, but it died a few years ago. [once: adverb]
erstwhile
Example
The erstwhile king abdicated the throne and went into exile. [erstwhile: adjective]
Example
The company's erstwhile CEO resigned after a scandal. [erstwhile: adjective]
Example
The erstwhile factory has been converted into a museum. [erstwhile: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Once is more common and versatile than erstwhile. Once can be used in various contexts and functions, while erstwhile is less common and primarily used as an adjective.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between once and erstwhile?
Erstwhile has a slightly formal or literary connotation, making it more appropriate for formal or written contexts. Once is more neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal settings.
