# in the first place

idiom · CEFR B2

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/in-the-first-place
Updated: 2026-04-22

## Meaning

you use this to talk about the beginning of a situation or the original reason for something. it often helps you explain why a problem started or why a choice was made.

## Examples

- Why did you buy this broken phone in the first place?
- I should have checked the weather forecast in the first place, because now we are stuck in the rain without umbrellas.
- The committee questioned why the project was approved in the first place, given the lack of clear evidence to support its long-term viability.

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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.