Formerly vs. Previously — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Fiza Rafique — Updated on March 15, 2024
Formerly emphasizes a past identity or role, while previously indicates a broader sense of something occurring before the current point in time.
Difference Between Formerly and Previously
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Formerly is used to denote a past identity, role, or characteristic that has since changed, highlighting a distinct contrast between the past and present. On the other hand, previously refers more generally to something that happened or existed before the current moment, without necessarily implying a change in identity or function.
While "formerly" often signifies a more significant or transformative change, "previously" can be used for both minor and major events or states that occurred earlier. For example, a person might say they "previously lived in New York" without implying a significant change in their life or identity.
In usage, "formerly" can carry a more formal or literary tone, suggesting a deliberate highlight of transformation or contrast. "Previously," however, is more neutral and versatile, fitting easily into both casual and formal contexts.
Despite their differences, both terms serve to link the past with the present, providing a temporal reference point that helps to clarify timelines, sequences, or changes over time.
Comparison Chart
Emphasis
Past identity or role
Sequence or timing before present
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Implication
Significant change or transformation
Any event or state before now
Usage context
More formal or literary
Neutral, versatile
Example usage
"The museum was formerly a factory."
"I previously worked in marketing."
Common phrases
"formerly known as," "formerly a"
"previously mentioned," "previously seen"
Compare with Definitions
Formerly
Past identity or role.
She was formerly the CEO of the company.
Previously
Before the current time or event.
He had previously visited Japan.
Formerly
Before a change or transformation.
The park was formerly an industrial site.
Previously
In a former instance.
Previously, she had attempted the same challenge.
Formerly
Previous condition or state.
The building was formerly a warehouse.
Previously
At an earlier time.
The issue was previously discussed.
Formerly
Used to indicate a previous name.
The city, formerly known as Constantinople, is now Istanbul.
Previously
Prior to another event or condition.
Previously, the area was undeveloped.
Formerly
Historically or in the past.
The area was formerly part of a larger estate.
Previously
Earlier in sequence.
The actor was previously cast in a supporting role.
Formerly
At an earlier time; once.
Previously
Existing or occurring before something else in time or order; prior
Children by a previous marriage.
Formerly
At some time in the past
Xenia Robertson, formerly known as Xenia Isaamov, is from Ukraine.
Previously
(Informal) Acting, occurring, or done too soon; premature or hasty
"I have been too previous, for which you must blame the natural impatience of a man in love" (Georgette Heyer).
Formerly
Previously; once
This ranch was formerly owned by slaveholders.
Previously
First; beforehand, in advance.
Formerly
In time past, either in time immediately preceding or at any indefinite distance; of old; heretofore.
Previously
(with past-tense constructions) At an earlier time.
The discovery of a previously unknown species had taken place nearly two years previously.
Formerly
At a previous time;
Once he loved her
Her erstwhile writing
Previously
(television) Recapitulating the preceding episodes of a series.
Previously
Beforehand; antecedently; as, a plan previously formed.
Previously
At an earlier time or formerly;
She had previously lived in Chicago
He was previously president of a bank
Better than anything previously proposed
A previously unquestioned attitude
Antecedently arranged
Common Curiosities
Can "previously" be used to sequence events?
Yes, it's commonly used to describe the order of events or conditions over time.
How does the formality of "formerly" and "previously" compare?
"Formerly" is often more formal or literary, while "previously" is neutral and versatile.
Is "formerly" used only for people and places?
No, it can refer to any past identity or role, including objects or concepts.
Does "formerly" suggest a before-and-after scenario?
Yes, it highlights a distinct contrast between a past and current state.
Do "formerly" and "previously" have synonyms?
Yes, words like "once," "earlier," and "in the past" can serve similar purposes.
How does context affect the choice between "formerly" and "previously"?
The choice depends on whether the focus is on a significant transformation ("formerly") or simply timing before the present ("previously").
Can "previously" refer to a sequence of events?
Yes, it's particularly useful for indicating the order in which things happened.
Can "previously" indicate a change?
Yes, but it broadly refers to any event or state before the present, without necessarily implying a transformation.
Can "formerly" and "previously" be used in the same sentence?
While uncommon, they can be used together if differentiating between types of past states or events.
What does "formerly" imply in usage?
It implies a significant past identity, role, or condition that has changed.
Is "formerly" interchangeable with "previously"?
Not always, due to "formerly's" emphasis on significant change or past identity.
Is "previously" used in formal writing?
Yes, it can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
How does "previously" work in narratives?
It helps to establish timelines or the sequence of events in a story.
How do "formerly" and "previously" contribute to clarity in communication?
They provide temporal context, helping to clarify when something occurred or what its past state was.
Can "formerly" imply a downgrade or negative change?
It can, but it neutrally denotes a past state without inherently implying the nature of the change.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
