To begin with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'To begin with' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to introduce a series of points that you are going to discuss, for example: "To begin with, I believe that AI should be regulated; secondly, I think that we should develop ethical guidelines for its use; and finally, I think it should be used to benefit society."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

To begin with?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

To begin with, phones glow.

The New York Times

To begin with, it's cheap.

The New Yorker

To begin with, students arbitrage international prices.

The New Yorker

To begin with, there is overwork.

The Economist

To begin with, Apple fought back.

The New York Times

To begin with, Iraq spurned the plan.

The Economist

To begin with, there is the terminology.

The Economist

To begin with, it won't win.

The Economist

To begin with, personality does count.

The Economist

"To begin with, it was quite interesting.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "To begin with" to introduce the first in a series of arguments or points. This helps structure your writing and guide the reader through your reasoning.

Common error

Avoid starting every paragraph with introductory phrases like "To begin with". Vary your sentence structure to keep your writing engaging and prevent it from sounding repetitive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "To begin with" functions as an adverbial phrase to introduce the first in a sequence of points or arguments. It signals the commencement of a discussion or list. Ludwig AI indicates that is a correct phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Wiki

12%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "To begin with" serves as an effective way to introduce the first point in a series, indicating the commencement of a discussion or list. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely accepted in written English. Commonly found in news and media, it maintains a neutral tone suitable for varied contexts. When using this phrase, ensure it genuinely introduces the first point and that subsequent points follow logically to maintain a structured and engaging narrative.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

To start with

A direct synonym focusing on the act of beginning.

Firstly

A straightforward substitute that highlights the first point in a series.

Initially

Emphasizes the starting point or the beginning stage of something.

In the first place

Highlights priority or the fundamental reason for something.

As a starting point

Positions the following information as a base or foundation.

At the outset

Suggests the very beginning of a process or endeavor.

First and foremost

Stresses the importance of the initial point.

To commence with

A more formal way of indicating the beginning of a discussion or action.

In the beginning

Focuses on the very start of a situation or period.

Primarily

Indicates the main or most important point to begin with.

FAQs

How can I use "To begin with" in a sentence?

Use "To begin with" to introduce the initial point or argument in a series. For example, "To begin with, the budget needs to be revised; then, we can discuss resource allocation."

What are some alternatives to "To begin with"?

You can use alternatives such as "firstly", "initially", or "in the first place" to vary your writing.

Is it correct to say "To begin with," or should I use another phrase?

"To begin with" is a perfectly acceptable and grammatically correct phrase to use when introducing the first point in a discussion or argument.

How does "To begin with" differ from "In conclusion"?

"To begin with" introduces the start of a discussion or series of points, while "In conclusion" summarizes and concludes the discussion. They serve opposite purposes in structuring an argument or piece of writing.