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first vs first of all

Both 'first' and 'first of all' are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'First' is used to introduce the initial point in a list or sequence, while 'first of all' is used to introduce the most important point or consideration.

Last updated: March 27, 2024 • 897 views

first

Correct. 'First' is used to introduce the initial point in a list or sequence.

Use 'first' when you want to introduce the initial point or step in a series of points or steps.

Examples:

  • First, we need to gather all the necessary materials.
  • Let's address the first issue before moving on to the next one.
  • The first car that stops, decides our destination.
  • Congratulations on Mission Kashmir's first victory.
  • His first attorney was probably some 12-year-old legal-aid guy.
  • He was my first real boyfriend.
  • The first killing was too cruel.
  • Take a statement from him first.
  • She murdered her first victim here.
  • This fighting staff was my first weapon.
  • Madlyn's first birthday since her mother died.
  • We sing first and then read later.
  • My first job paid that much.
  • The first attempted switch was carefully rehearsed.
  • Gone before the first cops arrived.
  • Like their first pair of high-heeled shoes.
  • Our first meditation begins in one hour.
  • Congratulations on our first FBI raid.
  • Violence was always her first instinct.
  • Writing's always been my first love.
  • Wait. Let the dust settle first.
  • This was Bronson's first discovery.

Alternatives:

  • initially
  • to begin with
  • firstly
  • first off

first of all

Correct. 'First of all' is used to introduce the most important point or consideration.

Use 'first of all' when you want to emphasize the importance of the initial point or consideration before moving on to others.

Examples:

  • First of all, safety should always be our top priority.
  • First of all, we need to address the main issue at hand.
  • Oct 1, 2016 ... 1.1 Most importantly. 'German unity depends first of all on the German people'. None of the examples in the dictionary clarify this for me.

Alternatives:

  • above all
  • primarily
  • first and foremost
  • most importantly

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