former works

USAGE SUMMARY

"former works" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that has already been done or produced. For example: "Her former works have been the most popular in the gallery."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

Later he abandoned the hard brilliance of his former works and drew softer outlines.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But their former works in France were bought and a faux-Chartreuse was created and sold under the good name.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"Nature has changed course, and none of the agents she employs today would have been sufficient to produce her former works".

The New Yorker

While most managers alternate between track and smart suit, the former works for Pearson's no-nonsense approach, where a shift with players at the training ground is prioritised over anything that might require a tie and shoes.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The former works closely with American Express, a credit-card firm which is marketing Bigvine's service to its own small-business customers; and on October 17th, Bigvine announced plans to merge with Allbusiness, which offers a range of services to small businesses.

The Economist

But then, it's also a departure from those four, in a way that the Evening Standard feels could disappoint: "Fans of Hollinghurst's former works may be sad to find there is little explicit sex to be had here," it informed me.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

A former work camp commander, Ion Ficior, is also under investigation and may face charges.

The New York Times

The Ella Sharp Museum, on a former working farm, has exhibits dedicated to pioneer and agricultural history.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Other officials blamed gentrification of former working ports for the inability to launch such projects.

The New York Times

But she has retained the creepiness inherent in her former work.

The New York Times

Not enough positive can be said of Peter Schreier's former work as Evangelist in the Bach Passions.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing an artist's or author's development, use "former works" to highlight the contrast with their current style or themes.

Common error

While "former works" is acceptable, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language with synonyms like "previous creations" or "earlier projects".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "former works" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject or object in a sentence. It refers to creations, projects, or achievements that someone has produced in the past. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

32%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "former works" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe previous creations or accomplishments. While Ludwig AI confirms its validity, varying your language is encouraged to prevent redundancy. The phrase is most frequently found in scientific and news contexts, indicating a formal or neutral register. Consider using alternatives like "previous creations" or "earlier projects" to add variety to your writing. When referencing an artist's development, it can be effectively used to contrast their current and past styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

previous creations

Focuses on the act of creating something in the past, rather than the created items themselves.

past achievements

Emphasizes accomplishments and successful outcomes from prior efforts.

earlier projects

Highlights specific undertakings or endeavors completed at an earlier time.

prior endeavors

Stresses the effort and ambition invested in past undertakings.

historical compositions

Refers specifically to artistic or literary pieces created in the past.

preceding efforts

Highlights the sequence of actions or activities leading up to a current one.

outdated outputs

Implies that the creations are no longer current or relevant.

legacy productions

Suggests that the works have had a lasting impact and are part of someone's legacy.

past portfolio

Used in business context, a listing of former projects.

old inventory

Indicates the availability of creations.

FAQs

How can I use "former works" in a sentence?

You can use "former works" to refer to someone's previous creations, as in, "The artist's "former works" were primarily landscapes, but now she focuses on portraits."

What's a good alternative to "former works"?

Depending on the context, alternatives like "previous creations", "earlier projects", or "past achievements" can be used.

Is "former works" the same as "previous works"?

Yes, "former works" and "previous works" are often used interchangeably to refer to creations or projects completed in the past. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "former works" instead of "past work"?

"Former works" is suitable when discussing multiple distinct creations, while "past work" can refer to a broader category of professional activities or experiences.