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.

They tend to form gradually as confidence begins to fracture, often invisibly at first.

From Barron's • Apr. 2, 2026

While it is unclear why Bucknor missed the call at first base, the rash of overturned ball/strike calls is emblematic of the adjustments umpires and players are making to the automated ball/strike challenge system.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

Officers there were at first confused, then alarmed by the amount she had transferred.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 30, 2026

"This explains why you feel fine at first but then start to feel sick as the infection becomes established," Julius said.

From Science Daily • Mar. 28, 2026

He wasn't often worried about that though, not the way he had been at first.

From "All About Sam" by Lois Lowry