When to Use Formally vs Formerly
In the English language, some words look so similar at first glance that we may easily confuse them. And these pesky little words can slide right by spelling and grammar checkers.
Two words that look similar and can be easily confused are formerly and formally. Both words begin with form- and end in the suffix -ly, so our brains can easily overlook the two-letter difference in the middle of the words: -er- in formerly and -al- in formally. But these two letters distinguish the meanings of these words.
Formerly means previously or at an earlier time, whereas formally means officially or in line with the rules of convention or etiquette. These definitions become clearer when you remove the suffix -ly to reveal the roots of the words: former for formerly and formal for formally.
Examples – Formerly
The National Academy of Medicine was formerly known as the Institute of Medicine.
The professor was formerly a postdoctoral fellow.
Examples – Formally
The scientist will formally establish their new lab at the university.
The physician formally accepted the award at the ceremony.
