If we look at the former meaning: it is an adjective which is used to refer to something precious. Former can be used into three rationales. The first one is used after a sequence. In this type the former refers to the first two things which are mentioned in a sequence, for example: "homes these days have two water shut-off valves, the main shut-off valve and exterior shut-off valve, the former controls water flow for the entire structure". The second type of former refers to something that happened in the previous time or place. For example, "the meeting was held for two days. During the former, the manager talks about the policies". And the last type of the former is to mention the previous state or position that no longer exists. For example, "John's former husband did not show up at this party".