"first of all" vs "firstly"

Question

"first of all" vs "firstly"

Both 'firstly' and 'first of all' are correct and commonly used to introduce the first point or step in a sequence. They are interchangeable in most contexts.

Last Updated: March 27, 2024

It is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to indicate the initial step or point in a series of actions or ideas.

Examples:

First of all, we need to address the main issue.
First of all, let's clarify the objectives of the project.

Alternatives:

firstly
to begin with
first and foremost
in the first place
initially

It is commonly used in both spoken and written English to indicate the initial step or point in a series of actions or ideas.

Examples:

Firstly, we need to gather all the necessary materials.
Firstly, let's discuss the budget for the project.

Alternatives:

first of all
to begin with
first and foremost
in the first place
initially

Answer 1

first of all

The phrase 'first of all' is a correct way to introduce the first point or step in a sequence.

Answer 2

firstly

The word 'firstly' is a correct adverb used to introduce the first point or step in a sequence.

"first of all" vs "firstly"

first of all

firstly

Related Comparisons