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Dictionary-enhanced word family

Word Forms of “Formerly”

Before now; previously; at a time before the present.

Word Family of Formerly

What is the adjective of formerly? — former

former

What is the adverb of formerly? — formerly

formerly

How to Use Each Word Form in a Sentence

  • He is now a teacher, but formerly worked as an engineer. B1
  • This building was formerly a hospital for many years. B1
  • The city was formerly known as Constantinople. B2

Word Form Patterns for Formerly

-er

Adds **-er** to make a noun for a person or thing that performs the action. Example: formerly → former.

Origin and Word Formation of Formerly

From Latin forma (form), but sense derives from earlier period.

Common Word Form Mistakes with Formerly

Wrong: He formerly is a doctor.

Correct: He was formerly a doctor.

Use past tense with formerly to show change over time.

Wrong: Formerly the company is successful.

Correct: Formerly the company was successful.

Use past tense when formerly refers to previous state.

Frequently Asked Questions About Word Forms of Formerly

What are the word forms of “formerly”?

The confirmed forms are shown in the word family cards above. Missing parts of speech are hidden instead of filled with placeholder text.

What part of speech is “formerly”?

“formerly” is primarily a adv. Some forms above show how the same root works as other parts of speech.

Where does “formerly” come from?

From Latin forma (form), but sense derives from earlier period.

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