FIRSTLY Synonyms: 10 Similar and Opposite Words

firstly

adverb

ˈfərst-lē

Definition of firstly

as in originally

in the beginning firstly, gather all the ingredients together

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of firstly This is because, firstly, there is an extra knockout stage match and, secondly, weaker teams will be competing more regularly, providing top players such as Mbappe and Kane with ample opportunities to rack up the goals. — Peter Carline, New York Times, 26 June 2026 If experiencing heat illness, Helberg recommends, firstly, calling 911 for medical help. — Zuri Primos, Kansas City Star, 12 June 2026 The three ingredients at the start was firstly Julian’s love of American vintage clothing and the approach to vintage American cotton. — Rosemary Feitelberg, Footwear News, 1 May 2026 Chronis has been with the fund since 2019, firstly as a feature film consultant and then as Head of Feature Film & Documentary since 2021. — Melanie Goodfellow, Deadline, 10 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for firstly

Recent Examples of Synonyms for firstly

Adverb

The protesters, mostly young and dressed in black congregated in front of police lines leading to Place de la Nation, where the organizers had originally intended to end the march.

— Joseph Ataman, CNN Money, 24 Oct. 2026
On Saturday morning, police cleared Place de la Bastille, where protesters had originally been expected to gather.

— Richard Engel, NBC news, 24 Oct. 2026

Definition of originally

Adverb

Rodríguez was initially supposed to serve only 90 days as acting president, but has remained in office and has made no move to call an election.

— Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 26 Oct. 2026
Medical examinations initially revealed no major injury, but his condition deteriorated.

— Lance B. Fulford, Fortune, 25 Oct. 2026

Definition of initially

Browse Nearby Words

first-line

firstly

first name

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“Firstly.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/firstly. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of firstly

adverb

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