In the vast tapestry of language, certain phrases carry with them a sense of nostalgia and history. One such phrase in English is "once upon a time," which is often used to introduce stories or to refer to events that occurred in the distant past. This expression has a magical quality, evoking images of fairy tales and timeless adventures.

However, when we think beyond this literary usage, there are several other ways to express "in the past" in English. For instance, you might hear people say "back in the day" to refer to a specific era they remember fondly. This colloquialism carries a personal touch, suggesting a connection to memories and experiences from their youth or a particular period in life.

Another common phrase is "long ago," which is straightforward and evokes a sense of distance both temporally and emotionally. It's often used in more formal contexts or when discussing historical events that are no longer within living memory.

For those who prefer a more precise term, "formerly" can be used to indicate something that was once true but is no longer the case. This word is particularly useful in legal documents or academic writing where clarity and accuracy are paramount.

Each of these expressions adds depth and nuance to how we communicate about the past in English. They reflect not only our linguistic diversity but also our shared human experience of looking back on times gone by. Whether it's through storytelling, reminiscing, or scholarly analysis, the ability to articulate our past helps us understand who we are today.