# originally

/ɝˈɪdʒənəɫi/ (US) · /əɹˈɪdʒɪnəli/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/originally
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. at the beginning

adverb · CEFR B1

at first, or in the beginning before things changed.

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

- The house was originally painted green, but the new owners changed it to white.
- 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. in a creative way

adverb · CEFR C1 · Formal

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

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

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

## Examples

- The house was originally painted blue.
- The building was originally a factory, but it was converted into modern apartments ten years ago.
- Although the script was originally intended as a short film, the director expanded the narrative into a full-length feature after securing additional funding.

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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.