Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
firstly and foremostly
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "firstly and foremostly" is not correct and should not be used in written English.
You should simply use "first and foremost" instead. For example: First and foremost, I want to thank my family members for their support.
⚠ May contain grammatical issues
News & Media
Science
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
1 human-written examples
Firstly and foremostly, I think they enjoyed being together as actors who appreciate each other.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
59 human-written examples
Finally and foremostly, while many P2P systems abstract any topological information about the underlying network, a top priority of a CDN is to incorporate locality-awareness in query routing in order to locate close-by content.
Science
Firstly (and most importantly) - my colour scheme is red.
News & Media
Firstly, and most obviously, because she's dead.
News & Media
Firstly, and it's an obvious one, money is pivotal.
News & Media
Firstly, and arguably most importantly, is Greggs the baker.
News & Media
Firstly and plainly, everyone is capable of violence.
News & Media
Firstly, and crucially, assess whether the move is right for you.
News & Media
In the latter case, it is noteworthy that the Zebu also showed high stress in the orbital and superorbital region, areas that are not optimized for maximizing strength with minimal material (Ross and Iriarte-Diaz 2014) and that serve to protect the brain and eyes foremostly rather than impacting performance of feeding behavior.
Science & Research
Irving described the verdict as "firstly, indescribable, and secondly, perverse".
News & Media
Firstly, lots and lots of photos.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "first and foremost" instead of "firstly and foremostly" for correct and clear communication. This alternative is widely accepted and understood.
Common error
Do not combine "firstly" and "foremostly" as they are both adverbs indicating priority. Choose the standard and accepted form, "first and foremost".
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
2.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase aims to emphasize both sequential order and importance. However, according to Ludwig AI, the construction "firstly and foremostly" is grammatically incorrect. The correct form is "first and foremost".
Frequent in
News & Media
50%
Science
50%
Formal & Business
0%
Less common in
Wiki
0%
Academia
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, while the intention of the phrase "firstly and foremostly" is to combine the ideas of sequence and importance, it is considered grammatically incorrect. Ludwig AI recommends using the standard phrase "first and foremost" instead. Although examples can be found in various sources, including news and scientific publications, adhering to correct grammar is essential for clear and effective communication. Using "first and foremost" ensures that your message is both easily understood and grammatically sound.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
first and foremost
Omits "ly" from "first" and replaces "foremostly" for a more grammatically standard construction.
most importantly
Stresses the significance, but does not indicate sequence.
primarily
Focuses on the main point or reason, omitting the sequential aspect.
principally
Highlights the main aspect or component, differing in formality and nuance.
above all
Emphasizes the supreme importance of something, lacking the sequential nuance.
chiefly
Emphasizes the primary reason or element, lacking the sequential implication.
in the first place
Highlights the initial point or reason, disregarding the emphasis.
mainly
Indicates the primary component, leaving out the sequential meaning.
to begin with
Introduces the initial point in a sequence, without necessarily implying foremost importance.
essentially
Focuses on the fundamental nature, not the order or the level of importance.
FAQs
What is the correct way to say "firstly and foremostly"?
The correct and commonly accepted way to express the idea of something being both first and most important is to say "first and foremost".
Is "firstly and foremostly" grammatically correct?
No, "firstly and foremostly" is not considered grammatically correct. It's best to use the phrase "first and foremost" instead.
Can I use "firstly" or "foremostly" separately?
Yes, "firstly" can be used to introduce the first point in a sequence, and "foremost" can be used to emphasize importance. However, using them together as "firstly and foremostly" is redundant and not recommended. Instead, try "first and foremost".
What are some alternatives to "firstly and foremostly"?
Some alternatives include "first and foremost", "most importantly", or "above all", depending on the context.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
2.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested