"in the first place" vs "not at all"

Question

"in the first place" vs "not at all"

These two phrases are not directly comparable as they serve different purposes. 'In the first place' is used to introduce the initial point in a series of arguments or reasons, while 'not at all' is used to emphasize the absence of something. They are used in different contexts and cannot be interchanged.

Last Updated: March 20, 2024

Use 'in the first place' to introduce the first point in a series of arguments or reasons. It is often used to provide structure to an argument or discussion.

Examples:

In the first place, we need to consider the budget constraints.
I don't think we should go on this trip. In the first place, we don't have enough time.
In the first place, the project was poorly planned from the beginning.

Alternatives:

firstly
to begin with
initially
first and foremost
first of all

Use 'not at all' to emphasize that something is completely absent or untrue. It is often used in response to a negative statement or question.

Examples:

Are you tired? Not at all, I feel great!
I'm sorry if I offended you. - Not at all, I appreciate your honesty.
Do you mind if I sit here? - Not at all, please go ahead.

Alternatives:

absolutely not
definitely not
certainly not
no way
by no means

Answer 1

in the first place

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to introduce the initial point in a series of arguments or reasons.

Answer 2

not at all

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to emphasize the absence of something.

"in the first place" vs "not at all"

in the first place

not at all

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