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 Vegas residency was originally scheduled to begin last February but was repeatedly postponed as the singer battled the cancer and previous bouts of bronchitis.

— Greg Evans, Deadline, 10 Oct. 2026
The game, originally set to be shown on ESPN, with its new kickoff time will be live on the ESPN App in its entirety in addition to a to-be-determined ESPN network.

— Gary Bedore, Kansas City Star, 10 Oct. 2026

Definition of originally

Adverb

The study initially enrolled 53,000 varsity college athletes and service academy members; roughly one-quarter remain participants today.

— Daniel Libit, Sportico.com, 12 Oct. 2026
The agency said the flash flood was caused by a landslide that initially blocked the Budhi Gandaki River near the village of Chumchure.

— Binaj Gurubacharya, Los Angeles Times, 11 Oct. 2026

Definition of initially

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first-line

firstly

first name

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“Firstly.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/firstly. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of firstly

adverb

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