initially

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "initially" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate something that occurs at the beginning or the first stage of a process or situation. Example: "Initially, we thought the project would take three months to complete."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The Dalny Vostok was built in what is now Ukraine in 1989 and was initially operated by the Soviet fishing ministry.

The Guardian

Initially, the hospital said the CQC concerns related to the large number of patients entering the hospital through A&E.

The Guardian

You might initially assume it would be occupied by Danny Alexander, the sensationally overpromoted former press officer for the Cairngorms National Park, whose role appears to be to spout unintelligible cobblers with bewildering enthusiasm.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

He says he was informed this month that the club wanted to reduce the salary and were offering a shorter-term than initially agreed when he joined the club.

The Guardian - Sport

Initially he was posted to Japan, then Hawaii.

The Guardian

As the results came in, initially I experienced an enormous sense of relief because I hadn't realised how tense the idea of a Labour-SNP coalition had made me.

The Guardian - Opinion

That sent the Swiss franc soaring once again – it initially leapt an unprecedented 30% against the euro.

The Guardian - Money

The case was initially dropped after an official medical report claimed that Sohair had been treated for genital warts, and that she died from an allergic reaction to penicillin.

The Guardian

Alison Saunders, chief crown prosecutor for CPS London, said: "We have carefully considered the evidence gathered by the Metropolitan police service as part of Operation Yewtree in relation to Rolf Harris, who was initially arrested on 29 November 2012 over allegations of sexual offences.

The Guardian

The consequences, if Murphy's victory is less convincing than initially expected, are unclear.

The Guardian

Some initially accused us of dumbing everything down but I'm pleased to say it proved the opposite, it actually led people to look afresh".

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, consider if alternatives like "at first" or "in the beginning" might offer a more natural flow for your specific sentence or paragraph. It is important to consider register and audience when choosing your word.

Common error

Avoid using "initially" when a simpler word like "first" or "at first" would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound unnecessarily formal or verbose.

How to use

Learn how to use "initially" with practical examples and tips.

How to use

Linguistic Context

The adverb "initially" functions to modify a verb or clause, indicating the time or stage at which an action or state begins. It highlights the starting point or early phase of an event, as supported by Ludwig's examples. This clarification provides temporal context and sets the stage for subsequent developments.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "initially" is a versatile adverb used to denote the beginning or early stages of a process or event. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in journalistic and professional contexts. While "initially" is a reliable choice, remember to consider the register of your writing and whether simpler alternatives like "at first" might be more appropriate. Steer clear of overuse in basic sentences to keep your writing clear and concise. By understanding its function and purpose, you can effectively integrate "initially" into your writing to provide clarity and context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

At the start

Emphasizes the commencement of an event or process. Less formal than "initially".

In the beginning

Highlights the early phase of something. More general and less specific than "initially".

To begin with

Signals the first point or action in a sequence. More conversational than "initially".

At first

Indicates an early impression or reaction. Simpler and more direct than "initially".

Primarily

Focuses on the main or most important aspect at the beginning. Slightly different focus, emphasizing importance.

Originally

Denotes the initial state or form of something. Conveys a sense of transformation or change.

In its infancy

Emphasizes the early stage of development. More figurative and less literal than "initially".

Inception

Highlights the very start or creation of something. More formal and abstract than "initially".

Early on

Implies a period shortly after the beginning. Less precise about the exact starting point.

From the outset

Highlights the planned or intended beginning. Suggests a predetermined starting point.

FAQs

How can I use "initially" in a sentence?

"Initially" is used to describe something that happens at the beginning of a process or situation. For example, "Initially, I was skeptical, but I soon changed my mind."

What are some synonyms for "initially"?

Synonyms for "initially" include "at first", "in the beginning", "originally", and "to begin with".

Is "initially" formal or informal?

"Initially" is generally considered a neutral to slightly formal term, suitable for both professional and academic writing. Simpler alternatives may be preferred in very informal contexts.

What's the difference between "initially" and "finally"?

"Initially" refers to the beginning, while "finally" refers to the end. They are antonyms, representing opposite points in a sequence or process.