Confusing words choices
Formally v formerly
Word conundrums – especially ones that sound or look similar – constantly rear their ugly heads when we’re writing. There’s nothing worse than re-reading a sent email or a published report to find a glaring mistake. Not a simple typo but a ‘confusable’. Let’s look at the difference between formally and formerly.
Formally
Official or according to custom (formal).
- The formally dressed HR manager formally introduced himself to the team.
Formerly
Previously or in the past (former).
- The new HR manager was formerly a professional wrestler.
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