Secondly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Secondly" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to introduce the second point in a list or sequence of arguments or ideas. Example: "Firstly, we need to address the budget concerns. Secondly, we should consider the timeline for the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Secondly, for users who do breach the company's terms of service, a new tier of sanction has been introduced.

The Guardian - Tech

Secondly, he must deliver the radical management changes he's promised.

The Guardian

Secondly, and most importantly, the main idea embedded in your new network presents the former Soviet space as [a] somewhat homogeneous region today.

The Guardian - Opinion

Secondly, the broadcasters and regulator have come to an unsatisfactory conclusion because they refuse to recognise the multinational nature of the British state.

The Guardian - Opinion

The authors start with ghosts, firstly explaining that the "cold chills" often experienced in haunted houses are actually just a result of poor insulation (no EU building regs in the olden days), and secondly noting the rather amusing paradox that ghosts are often portrayed as walking, despite having no physical body.

The Guardian

Secondly, Ukip's organisation was appalling until Farage and his allies took a grip and set up viable structures.

The Guardian

Secondly, you needed to save what was then a huge sum of money; a new Zaphorozhets cost the equivalent of about 30 times the average monthly salary.

The Guardian

"Normally you've got a subsidiary, so you can nearly always go through the courts of the local place where it all took place,' says Day. "The problems are firstly that you have to find the costs, secondly the process will take many years and third is corruption".

The Guardian

"Let's remember that, firstly, on the ground there's enormous support; secondly, it's entirely voluntary and up to school boards whether they participate; and thirdly, the high court was not against the chaplaincy program but did say that Labor's funding mechanism was not acceptable so the prime minister has indicated that we will take steps to redress this".

The Guardian

Secondly, with the old Press Complaints Commission's pledge of swift decision-making in mind, I wonder why it took so long to reach this adjudication on what appears to be an open-and-shut case.

The Guardian

Secondly, he's just as interested in his clients' love lives as their training schedule.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "secondly" ensure there is a corresponding "Firstly" or a similar introductory marker to clearly establish the sequence.

Common error

Avoid using "secondly" if you don't have a "Firstly" or if you don't continue the sequence with "Thirdly" or other ordinal adverbs. Incomplete enumeration can confuse readers.

Linguistic Context

The primary function of "secondly" is to act as an adverb of enumeration, indicating the second item in a sequence of points or arguments. As Ludwig confirms, it’s a standard way to structure information. It provides clarity and organization within a text.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "secondly" functions as an adverb of enumeration, primarily used to introduce the second point in a sequence or argument. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, particularly in news and media and formal business contexts. While alternatives like "in addition" or "furthermore" exist, "secondly" provides a clear marker of sequence. To ensure effective communication, always strive for consistency by using a preceding "Firstly" to make enumeration clear to readers. Based on Ludwig's analysis, the phrase enjoys frequent use in authoritative sources such as The Guardian and The Economist, solidifying its position as a reliable and versatile element of formal English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

In addition

A straightforward way to introduce an additional point.

In the second instance

More formal and emphasizes a specific occurrence.

Moreover

Similar to 'furthermore' but slightly more emphatic.

Furthermore

More formal and introduces a point that builds upon the previous one.

Next

A simple sequential marker, less formal than "secondly".

Subsequently

More formal and implies a logical consequence.

On the second hand

More common in speech and indicates a contrasting viewpoint.

Following that

Indicates a sequence of events or points.

To add to that

Less formal and introduces an additional point.

Thereafter

Indicates a point in time following a previous one.

FAQs

How to use "Secondly" in a sentence?

"Secondly" is used to introduce the second point or argument in a series. For example: "Firstly, we need to address the budget. Secondly, we should consider the timeline."

What can I say instead of "Secondly"?

You can use alternatives like "in addition", "moreover", or "furthermore" to introduce your second point.

Is it necessary to use "Firstly" when using "Secondly"?

While not strictly grammatically required, using "Firstly" before "Secondly" provides a clearer and more structured sequence for your readers.

Can I use "Secondly" without continuing the list with "Thirdly" and so on?

Yes, you can use "Secondly" even if you don't explicitly continue the list. However, ensure that the context makes it clear that you are presenting a second point, even if it is the final point.