at first

ADVERB

originally

Synonyms

STRONGEST

basically formerly

STRONG

primitively

WEAK

at the outset at the start by birth by origin first in the beginning in the first place incipiently primarily to begin with

Antonyms

WEAK

secondarily

ADVERB

primarily

Synonyms

WEAK

at the start first and foremost from the start in the first place initially originally primitively

Antonyms

WEAK

finally secondarily

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.

At first, the sounds came from under the table, but when the group sang, the raps thumped in time to the music on the table’s top.

From Literature

At first, the sisters’ group got lost in Griswold’s stylish neighborhood.

From Literature

They were, “played upon, separately at first, and finally all together” like a floating orchestra.

From Literature

Maggie didn’t take him too seriously at first.

From Literature

Danielle admitted to being "really angry" and hating him at first, feeling that anger gave her some control.

From BBC