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Formally vs. Formerly 

synographs
"Formally" vs. "Formerly" in English

What Is Their Main Difference?

Interestingly, these two words have no similarities. 'Formerly' refers to the way something was in the past, whereas, 'formally' shows that something is formal and is related to ettiquete.

Differences

As I mentioned above, 'formerly' refers to something in the past. Look below:

Example

The Queen was formerly known as the most beautiful country girl in Oxfordsire.

The killer, formerly known as America's greatest rock star, has murdered several women.

'Formally', however, refers to something formal and related to ettiquete. Check out the following examples:

Example

The manager was formally replaced on 8 of September.

The government formally collapsed in 1956.

Similarities

As I said above, these two have nothing in common.

Are They Interchangeable?

These two are never interchangeable because they refer to completely different concepts. Compare:

Example

✓ I don't believe you and the president have formally met before, sir.

X I don't believe you and the president have formerly met before, sir.

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