the former method

USAGE SUMMARY

"the former method" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that was done or used previously, for example, "We have adopted the newer method, but the former method still has its merits."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The results obtained by the former method are more reproducible.

Electrochimica Acta

The former method reported greater drug loading values and a sustained release profile.

European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics

The comparison reveals that the former method is more effective than the later.

Applied Mathematics and Computation

The former method involves close cooperation with users, whereas the latter does not.

Landscape and Urban Planning

In the former method, the hyperparameter is determined for minimization of the generalization error.

Neurocomputing

The former method is fast to sample, yet sacrifices the accuracy of the data representation.

Annals of Nuclear Energy

The former method resides on two-party communications while the latter resides on hierarchical group communications.

Journal of Systems Architecture

The control architecture based on localization and planning is compared to the former method.

Neural Networks

The former method involves searching for all sources within a specified radius of the Equatorial or Galactic source position coordinates.

Harvard University

The former method provides a stiffer mechanical response than the finite-element unit cell models.

Acta Materialia

The comparison between the results of the former method and the finite element tightly coupled analysis show almost satisfactory agreement.

Fusion Engineering and Design

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the former method", ensure there is a clearly defined "latter method" for comparison to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "the former method" if the 'latter method' is not explicitly stated or easily understood from the context. This can confuse the reader and weaken your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the former method" functions as a determiner phrase that references a previously mentioned method. It signals to the reader that you are specifically referring back to the first of two items or approaches that have been introduced. Ludwig examples confirm its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

62%

Academia

15%

News & Media

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the former method" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to refer to the first of two previously mentioned methods or approaches. As Ludwig confirms, its usage is correct and well-suited for various contexts, particularly science, academia, and news media. While its formality aligns well with academic and professional writing, clarity remains paramount; always ensure the "latter method" is explicitly defined to avoid ambiguity. Remember to choose alternative phrases like "the previous approach" or "the earlier technique" when appropriate to diversify your writing. By following best practices and avoiding common errors, you can effectively incorporate "the former method" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

The first method

Directly indicates the method that was presented or used first.

That method

A simpler, more direct reference to a method previously discussed.

The previous approach

Focuses on the temporal aspect, emphasizing that the method came before the current one.

The preceding methodology

A more formal way of referring to a method that came before.

The earlier technique

Highlights the method as a specific technique employed at an earlier time.

The initial strategy

Emphasizes the method as a starting point or plan.

The original procedure

Suggests that the method was the one initially established or implemented.

The aforementioned process

Formally refers to a process that has already been mentioned.

The method described earlier

Emphasizes that the method has been specifically described in the current text.

The old way

A more casual reference to a previous method, implying it is no longer in use.

FAQs

How to use "the former method" in a sentence?

Use "the former method" to refer back to the first of two things you've already mentioned. For example, "We considered both A and B; "the former method" proved more efficient."

What's the difference between "the former method" and "the latter method"?

"The former method" refers to the first thing mentioned, while "the latter method" refers to the second thing mentioned. They are used together to compare two distinct approaches or items.

What can I say instead of "the former method"?

Alternatives include "the previous approach", "the earlier technique", or "the initial strategy". The best choice depends on the specific context. See also "the previous approach".

Is it acceptable to use "the former method" in academic writing?

Yes, "the former method" is perfectly acceptable in academic writing, particularly when comparing two different approaches or methodologies. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.