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.

It meant that, at first, Kym was not alarmed when she lost contact with her husband.

From BBC • Jun. 4, 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

Officers would remain at the site overnight, police said, with further searches resuming at first light on Tuesday.

From BBC • Jun. 1, 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

The ride had moved along quickly at first, but as they got closer, traffic thickened.

From "Boy 2.0" by Tracey Baptiste