Word
firstly
Definition
adv. used to introduce the first point or reason in a list. You use it when you want to organize your ideas clearly.
adv. used to introduce the first item in a series of points, arguments, or reasons. Often used to structure formal speech or academic writing.
Examples
“Firstly, we need to decide on a budget.”
“Firstly, the report highlights the need for better safety equipment; secondly, it suggests more training for the staff.”
“Firstly, the data suggests a significant shift in consumer behavior toward sustainable products, which necessitates a complete overhaul of our current marketing strategy.”
Examples
simple
“Firstly, we need to decide on a budget.”
contextual
“Firstly, the report highlights the need for better safety equipment; secondly, it suggests more training for the staff.”
complex
“Firstly, the data suggests a significant shift in consumer behavior toward sustainable products, which necessitates a complete overhaul of our current marketing strategy.”
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “firstly” in context.
Usage
Typically placed at the beginning of a sentence or clause to provide structural signposting.
Pitfall
At first, I want to thank you all.
Firstly, I want to thank you all.
Learners often use 'at first' (which means 'initially') when they intend to use 'firstly' to start a list of points.
Etymology
Coined before 1475, from Middle English fyrst-lyk, equivalent to first + -ly.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- A2 · ElementaryOxford
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/firstly
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「日本語」 data: JMdict (EDRDG), CC BY-SA 4.0