erstwhile

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/ˈɝstˌwaɪl/
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Belonging to an earlier time or role.
Practice using erstwhile in conversation until it feels natural

Examples

  • He met an erstwhile colleague at the conference.
  • The building was the erstwhile home of a newspaper.
  • The erstwhile factory is now a museum.
  • An erstwhile rival joined the campaign.
  • Her erstwhile allies now oppose the plan.

Similar words

previous
former
one-time

Meanings

Formerly in a particular role

adjective
time
formal
Describes someone or something that once held a role or had a relationship that has since changed.

Examples

  • Her erstwhile allies now oppose the plan.
  • He met an erstwhile colleague at the conference.
  • The building was the erstwhile home of a newspaper.
  • An erstwhile rival joined the campaign.
  • The erstwhile factory is now a museum.

Similar words

former
previous
one-time

Etymology

Built from an older form meaning formerly and while, meaning a period of time.

FAQ

What does erstwhile mean?

Erstwhile means former or belonging to an earlier period.

When is erstwhile used?

It commonly appears before words such as ally, colleague, rival, or home.

How does erstwhile differ from former?

Former is ordinary language, while erstwhile has a more literary or formal tone.

How is erstwhile used in a sentence?

Her erstwhile allies now oppose the plan.

Is erstwhile formal?

Yes. Erstwhile sounds formal and somewhat literary.

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