Formally-Formerly | Commonly Confused Words

Formally

/ˈfɔːməli/

In a manner that follows formal rules or customs

He was formally invited to join the board.The law was formally approved last week.She was formally dressed for the gala evening.

/ˈfɔːməli/

Previously known by a different name or in a different state.

'Then it IS the lady as formerly objected?' said Wegg.I was a countryman formerly.""One of the four braves who formerly performed such prodigies."

Formally has an L in it just like Legal or Law, which can help you remember it's related to formal things or official procedures.
Formerly starts with Form, as in before or previous, so it is related to time, meaning something used to be a certain way.
Remember that formally is used in situations where etiquette, rules, or official settings are involved.
In formerly, the for can remind you of before, indicating something that existed in the past.
Use formally when discussing manners or official processes and formerly when discussing past identities or conditions.