Basic Details
Word: Formerly
Part of Speech: Adverb
Meaning: In the past; at an earlier time.
Synonyms: Previously, before, earlier
Antonyms: Currently, now, lately
Idioms and Phrases
- Formerly known as: Used to refer to someone or something by an old name. Example: "The artist, formerly known as Prince, changed his name multiple times."
- Once upon a time: A phrase that introduces a story, indicating it happened in the past. Example: "Once upon a time, there was a brave knight who saved the village."
Usage Examples
Example 1: Formerly a small village, the town has now grown into a bustling city.
Example 2: She was formerly the team's captain before she moved to another school.
Example 3: The building was formerly a theatre but has been converted into a library.
Fun Fact
The word "formerly" comes from the Latin word "formlis," meaning "in accordance with form" or "pertaining to form." It has been used in English since the 14th century!
Famous Quote
"One must be very careful not to let one's self get caught up in the excitement of the past and forget about the future." - Formerly unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "formerly" mean?
a) In the future
b) In the past
c) Currently
d) At the same time
Answer: b) In the past
2. Which of these is a synonym of "formerly"?
a) Now
b) Previously
c) Tomorrow
d) Recently
Answer: b) Previously
3. Which of these is an antonym of "formerly"?
a) Once
b) Previously
c) Currently
d) Before
Answer: c) Currently
4. Which sentence uses "formerly" correctly?
a) He was formerly a student at that school before he graduated.
b) She is formerly eating dinner at the moment.
c) They will formerly play the game tomorrow.
d) The flowers will bloom formerly in spring.
Answer: a) He was formerly a student at that school before he graduated.
5. Which idiom or phrase uses "formerly"?
a) Once upon a time
b) Now or never
c) Time flies
d) A stitch in time saves nine
Answer: a) Once upon a time
