ENGLISH
REFERENCE

originally

adv.
US //ɝˈɪdʒənəɫi// UK //əɹˈɪdʒɪnəli// orig·i·nal·ly
  1. 1 at the beginning (adv.)
    B1 Intermediate

    at first, or in the beginning before things changed.

    at the beginning of a process or state; refers to the initial condition before subsequent modification.

    Example

    The house was originally painted green, but the new owners changed it to white.

    Example

    Although the building was originally designed as a warehouse, it has since been converted into luxury apartments and a gallery space.

    Usage

    Typically placed before the main verb or after the verb 'to be'.
  2. 2 in a creative way (adv.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    in a new, fresh, or creative way that is different from others.

    in an original or creative manner; characterized by independent thought or inventive execution.

    Example

    She thinks very originally and always comes up with ideas no one else has.

    Example

    The composer approached the traditional folk melody quite originally, blending classical structures with modern electronic textures.

    Usage

    Often functions as an adverb of manner following the verb it modifies.
    • derivatively
    • unimaginatively
Origin

From Middle English originali; equivalent to original + -ly.

Word family

© 2026 English Reference