What Does "initially" Mean?
- Grammatical function: "Initially" is an adverb of time that functions as a connector or sentence modifier. It expresses a temporal relationship, specifically focusing on the beginning of a process, state, or sequence. It often implies a subsequent change or contrast, setting the stage for what happens later.
- Typical sentence position: It is highly mobile and can appear in the initial position (to frame the whole sentence), medial position (between the subject and verb or after an auxiliary verb), or final position (though less common).
- Register: Neutral to formal. It is frequently used in academic, journalistic, and professional writing to provide a clear chronological structure.
How to Use It
- Syntactic patterns: When used at the start of a sentence, it is typically followed by a comma. In the medial position, it often sits between the subject and the main verb (e.g., "He initially thought...") or follows the verb 'to be' (e.g., "It was initially designed...").
- Punctuation rules: Use a comma when "initially" acts as an introductory adverb at the start of a clause. No commas are needed when it is integrated into the middle of a verb phrase.
- Grammatical flexibility: It can be used to modify adjectives (e.g., "initially successful") or verbs. While it cannot be easily negated directly (one wouldn't say "not initially" as a standalone connector), the clause it modifies can be negative.
- What sounds unnatural: Placing "initially" too far from the action it modifies can cause confusion. For example, "He went to the store initially" is grammatically correct but often sounds less precise than "Initially, he went to the store" or "He initially went to the store."
Real-World Examples
These examples are sourced from initially on Ludwig.guru.
"Initially, the hospital said the CQC concerns related to the large number of patients entering the hospital through A&E." — The Guardian
"The Dalny Vostok was built in what is now Ukraine in 1989 and was initially operated by the Soviet fishing ministry." — The Guardian
"Initially he was posted to Japan, then Hawaii." — The Guardian
"The consequences, if Murphy's victory is less convincing than initially expected, are unclear." — The Guardian
"The thought of having it done terrified me initially." — The Guardian - Opinion
Examples sourced from https://ludwig.guru/s/initially
Similar Phrases and Alternatives
| Phrase |
Context |
| at first |
More common in spoken English; strongly implies a contrast with what happened later. |
| originally |
Refers to the first version or the very beginning of a state; very similar to initially but often used for origins. |
| at the outset |
Formal; emphasizes the very beginning of an undertaking or project. |
| to begin with |
Often used to list the first point in an argument or a sequence of events. |
| first and foremost |
Used when the "first" thing is also the most important, rather than just the first in time. |
| primarily |
Focuses on the main reason or purpose, which often coincides with the initial state. |
Common Mistakes
- Missing Punctuation: Forgetting the comma when "initially" starts a sentence can lead to "run-on" phrasing that is harder to parse.
- Redundancy: Using it alongside other beginning-markers, such as "Initially, at the start..." is redundant.
- Learner Error: Learners often use it interchangeably with 'at first' in contexts where a contrast is required, or they incorrectly place it after the verb instead of at the beginning of the clause.
Quick-Reference Summary
| Expression |
Function |
Register |
Typical Position |
| initially |
Temporal sequence / Contrast |
Neutral to Formal |
Initial or Medial |
FAQs
Where can the word initially be placed in a sentence?
The word initially is highly versatile and can appear in sentence-initial position followed by a comma to set the scene. It also frequently appears in mid-clause positions, specifically before the main verb or after the first auxiliary verb.
What is the difference between initially and at first?
While both refer to the beginning of a period, initially is more formal and frequently used in professional or academic writing. In contrast, at first is more common in narrative or spoken contexts and almost always signals that a change in situation is about to be described.
How can I avoid common mistakes when using initially?
Learners often use it interchangeably with at first in contexts where a contrast is required, or they incorrectly place it after the verb instead of at the beginning of the clause. To ensure accuracy, place initially before the verb it modifies or use it as an introductory element at the very start of your sentence.