at first

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"I assumed it was a streetlight at first," he said.

From BBC • Jun. 9, 2026

Mejia, who is running for reelection as city controller, said he showed up at a polling place and was at first told he had to register to vote.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 2, 2026

Inflation began rising sharply during the pandemic in 2021, which most policymakers and forecasters thought at first would be transitory.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 31, 2026

On a stereotypically rainy day in Manchester, we're ushered into a kitchen that at first glance appears to be in a normal terraced house.

From BBC • May 30, 2026

I resist at first, but she starts to do some ridiculous dance moves and I can’t help but join her.

From "The Wrong Way Home" by Kate O’Shaughnessy