What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
prior
Example
Please let me know prior to the meeting if you cannot attend. [prior: preposition]
Example
The company had prior experience in the field, which gave them an advantage. [prior: adjective]
former
Example
The former president of the company retired last year. [former: adjective]
Example
She is a former teacher who now works as a writer. [former: adjective]
Example
The building used to be a school but is now a museum. [former: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Former is more commonly used than prior in everyday language, while prior is more commonly used in formal or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between prior and former?
Prior is typically associated with a more formal tone, while former is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
