Definition of Former
Quick Meaning of Former
Something that happened or existed before, but not now.
Detailed Definition of Former
Previously; belonging to an earlier time or position.
How to Pronounce Former
Stress pattern: Oo (2-syllable word).
Tip: Two syllables with stress on first: FOR-mer; don't confuse with 'farmer'.
Watch out: Often pronounced like 'farmer' with 'ar' sound; should be 'or' sound.
Origin and Etymology of Former
From Latin 'formosus', or from form + comparative -er.
How to Use Former in a Sentence
Each example shows “former” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The former president gave a speech at the event.”
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“She is my former teacher, but we still keep in touch.”
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“In former times, people traveled by horse and carriage.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Former
Common Synonyms for Former
Smart Synonyms for Former — When to Use Each
- previous
- for things that came immediately before
- past
- when referring to time periods or historical events
- earlier
- in more casual conversation contexts
Antonyms of Former
Common Collocations with Former
These phrases pair with “former” in everyday English:
- former president
- former student
- in former times
- my former teacher
- former colleagues
Common Mistakes When Using Former
Even fluent speakers slip up with “former”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: He is a former employee of that company still working there.
- ✓ Correct: He is a former employee but still works there.
- Why: Don't repeat 'former'; use 'but' to clarify current vs. past status.
- ✗ Wrong: In the former times, people was very different.
- ✓ Correct: In former times, people were very different.
- Why: Use 'former' before noun without 'the'; plural 'people' needs 'were'.
Words Confused With Former
- Former vs Latter: Latter means the second of two; former means the first or previous. Compare →
Other Forms of Former
Frequently Asked Questions About Former
What is the meaning of "Former"?
Something that happened or existed before, but not now.
How do you pronounce "Former"?
The IPA is /ˈfɔːrmər/. Two syllables with stress on first: FOR-mer; don't confuse with 'farmer'.
What part of speech is "Former"?
"Former" is an adjective at A2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Former"?
Common synonyms include previous, past, earlier.
How do you use "Former" in a sentence?
For example: "The former president gave a speech at the event."