""at first"" vs ""at first,""

Question

""at first"" vs ""at first,""

Both "at first" and "at first," are correct, but they are used in different contexts. "At first" is used to indicate the initial stage of something, while "at first," is used to introduce a subsequent clause or explanation.

Last Updated: March 26, 2024

Use "at first" to describe the beginning or initial period of a situation, event, or process.

Examples:

At first, I didn't like the movie, but it grew on me.
She was hesitant at first, but eventually, she agreed to join us.
At first, the project seemed overwhelming, but with time, it became manageable.

Alternatives:

initially
in the beginning
to start with
at the outset
at the beginning

Use "at first," when you want to introduce a subsequent clause or explanation after an initial statement.

Examples:

I was hesitant at first, but then I realized it was the right decision.
At first, I thought it was a mistake, but upon closer inspection, it made sense.
She seemed upset at first, but as she explained, I understood her perspective.

Alternatives:

initially,
in the beginning,
to start with,
at the outset,
at the beginning,

Answer 1

"at first"

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to indicate the initial stage of something.

Answer 2

"at first,"

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to introduce a subsequent clause or explanation following an initial statement.

""at first"" vs ""at first,""

"at first"

"at first,"

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