# at first

idiom · CEFR A2

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/at-first
Updated: 2026-04-22

## Meaning

This phrase means 'in the beginning'. You often use it to contrast the start of something with what happened later.

## Examples

- At first, I did not like the taste of coffee.
- At first, the new job seemed very difficult, but I learned quickly and now I enjoy it.
- At first, the mystery appeared impossible to solve, yet the detective eventually discovered the truth hidden within the old letters.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.