English Reference
adverb

originally

adv.
US /ɝˈɪdʒənəɫi/ UK /əɹˈɪdʒɪnəli/ orig·i·nal·ly

  1. 01 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.

    Simple

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

    In context

    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. 02 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.

    Simple

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

    In context

    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.

    creativelyuniquelyinnovatively
    derivativelyunimaginatively

Usage originally published · originally intended · originally appeared


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

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Middle English originali
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated