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Definitions

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.

The ex-Hill editor thought the acquisition seemed fitting at first, since the newspaper also aimed for objective, center-leaning D.C. journalism.

From Slate • Apr. 21, 2026

You don’t need fireworks or an angelic choir singing at first glance.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 17, 2026

Having made 15, Martin Andersson wafted uncharacteristically loosely outside the off stump and edged a catch to Jones at first slip.

From BBC • Apr. 13, 2026

The Morelli sibs’ involvement gets more and more fruitlessly complicated, though Messrs. Ivanir and Kuzum get to stretch beyond what at first seem clichéd roles.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

And it was not so bad at first.

From "Woodsong" by Gary Paulsen