"first" vs "firstly"

Question

"first" vs "firstly"

Both 'firstly' and 'first' are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Firstly' is an adverb used to introduce the first point in a series or list, while 'first' is an adjective or adverb used to indicate the initial position in a sequence.

Last Updated: March 19, 2024

Use 'first' when you want to indicate the initial position in a sequence. It can be used in various contexts, such as rankings, instructions, or descriptions.

Examples:

She finished the race in first place.
First, preheat the oven to 350°F before baking.

Alternatives:

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

Use 'firstly' when you want to introduce the initial point in a series or list. It is commonly used in formal or academic writing.

Examples:

Firstly, I would like to thank everyone for their support.
Firstly, we need to consider the budget constraints before proceeding.

Alternatives:

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

Answer 1

first

The word 'first' is a correct adjective or adverb used to indicate the initial position in a sequence.

Answer 2

firstly

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

"first" vs "firstly"

first

firstly

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