What's the Difference Between 'Formally' and 'Formerly'?
In this blog post we look at when to use formally and when to use formerly.
'Formally' or 'Formerly'?
"Formally" and "formerly" are homonyms which means that they sound the same. Their meanings however, are different and they are used in different contexts.
"Formally" is an adverb that means in a formal or official way, or according to the rules.
It is often used to describe something that is done in a serious or ceremonial manner, or something that is done in a way that follows established procedures or protocols.
On the other hand, "formerly" is an adverb that means in the past, or at an earlier time.
It is used to describe something that was true or happened in the past, but is no longer true or no longer happens.
In summary, "formally" describes something that is done in a formal or official way, while "formerly" describes something that used to be true or happen, but is no longer the case.
Here are some example sentences to describe the difference between the words “formally” and “formerly”:
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He was formally introduced to the Queen at the ceremony. (This means that he was introduced to the Queen in a formal or official way, perhaps with a formal introduction or presentation.)
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The company is formally known as XYZ Inc. (This means that the company's official name is XYZ Inc., as opposed to a nickname or abbreviation.)
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The ceremony was conducted formally, with everyone wearing formal attire. (This means that the ceremony was conducted in a serious or formal manner, with people dressed in formal clothing.)
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She was formerly employed by the company, but she left to start her own business. (This means that she used to work for the company, but she is no longer employed there.)
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The building was formerly used as a school, but it has been converted into apartments. (This means that the building used to be used as a school, but it is now being used for a different purpose.)
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He was formerly a lawyer, but he retired from the profession. (This means that he used to be a lawyer, but he is no longer practicing law.)
Examples of Formally in a Sentence
Here are ten example sentences using the word "formally":
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He was formally introduced to the Queen at the ceremony.
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The company is formally known as XYZ Inc.
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The ceremony was conducted formally, with everyone wearing formal attire.
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She was formally invited to the wedding by the bride and groom.
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He was formally charged with embezzlement after an investigation.
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They were formally married in a church ceremony.
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The new policy was formally announced at the meeting.
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He was formally appointed to the board of directors.
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The treaty was formally signed by the leaders of both countries.
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She was formally welcomed to the company at a reception.
Examples of Formerly in a Sentence
Here are ten example sentences using the word "formerly":
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She was formerly employed by the company, but she left to start her own business.
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The building was formerly used as a school, but it has been converted into apartments.
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He was formerly a lawyer, but he retired from the profession.
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The company was formerly known as ABC Corp, but it changed its name to XYZ Inc.
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The property was formerly owned by the city, but it was sold to a developer.
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She was formerly married to him, but they got divorced.
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The organization was formerly located in a different city, but it moved to a new location.
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He was formerly a member of the team, but he was traded to another team.
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The product was formerly made with a different ingredient, but it was changed due to customer feedback.
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The policy was formerly in effect, but it has been modified or discontinued.
