initially subsequently

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "initially subsequently" is not correct and usable in written English.
It is contradictory as "initially" refers to the beginning of a process, while "subsequently" refers to something that happens later. Example: "Initially, we planned to launch the product in March; subsequently, we decided to delay it until June."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Another significant finding is that almost a quarter of chest symptomatics who reported to private facilities initially, subsequently shifted to a government facility for further care.

Plosone

More accurately, it is the extent to which pores remain in an open state that correlates with damage, since we have demonstrated that some mitochondria in which the MPTP opens initially, subsequently undergo pore closer as reperfusion continues [75,85].

Biochimica et Biophysica Acta - General Subjects

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Epithelial outgrowth was monitored under a microscope at 24 hour intervals, and DMEM growth medium was supplemented with 100 µl fresh medium after 24 hours initially, and subsequently every 48 hours.

Plosone

On the no whey and whey in meal days, emptying was rapid initially and subsequently slower, whereas emptying after the whey preload approximated a linear pattern.

Diabetes Care

These findings suggest that AVO signals activation of caspase-9 initially, which subsequently stimulates caspase-3 enzymatic activity, which then initiates caspase-8 activation to amplify the apoptosis cascade.

BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine

Headaches will worsen initially, but subsequently improve over several weeks.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Thiram reduced the disease initially, but subsequently did not prove effective.

Crop Protection

However, as pressure was released, hydrogen bonds formed initially, and subsequently, hydrophobic and electrostatic bonds were superimposed on the structure.

International Aquatic Research

Thermal analyses show that the complexes lose molecules of hydration initially and subsequently expel anionic and organic ligands in continuous steps.

Journal of Molecular Structure

Thermal analyses show that the complexes lose water molecules of hydration initially and subsequently expel anionic parts and organic ligands in continuous steps.

Journal of Molecular Structure

Plasma concentrations of glucose tended to increase initially and subsequently decrease, and there was a quadratic tendency for increased plasma nonesterified fatty acid concentrations after LPS administration.

Journal of Dairy Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using "initially subsequently" as it is contradictory; instead, use a conjunction or rephrase to clearly indicate the sequence of events. For example, use "initially, and then subsequently" or "first and then later" for clarity.

Common error

A common mistake is to use "initially subsequently" together, which is redundant and confusing. Ensure temporal adverbs accurately reflect the intended sequence; using both implies an unnecessary repetition. Using them together creates a contradictory statement, as 'initially' already implies 'subsequently'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "initially subsequently" functions as an attempted temporal connector, aiming to link two events in a sequence. However, due to its redundancy, it fails to perform this function effectively. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is incorrect and unusable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "initially subsequently" is considered grammatically incorrect due to its redundant and contradictory nature. Ludwig AI highlights that this combination is not suitable for standard English writing. Instead, it's best to opt for clearer alternatives like "first and then" or "at first and later" to accurately convey the sequence of events. While individual words might be appropriate for academic or scientific contexts, their combination results in an error. Therefore, avoid using "initially subsequently" to maintain clarity and credibility in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

first and then

Replaces the adverbial phrase with a simpler conjunction to indicate sequence.

at first and later

Uses a different pair of temporal adverbs to denote the order of events.

initially and afterwards

Substitutes "subsequently" with a synonym that also indicates time progression.

previously and then

Employs "previously" to highlight an earlier state followed by a later one.

in the beginning and subsequently

Rephrases "initially" with a more descriptive phrase, maintaining "subsequently".

early on and later on

Uses informal variants to signify the temporal sequence.

to begin with and after that

Breaks down the sequence using a more conversational structure.

at the start and then

Highlights the commencement of an action and its continuation.

firstly and secondly

Emphasizes a numbered sequence of actions or events.

at the initial stage and subsequently

Expands on the idea of 'initially' using a more verbose construction while keeping 'subsequently'.

FAQs

Why is "initially subsequently" considered incorrect?

The phrase "initially subsequently" is incorrect because it's redundant and contradictory. "Initially" already implies that something happens at the beginning, and "subsequently" means 'later'. Using them together is like saying 'beginning later', which doesn't make logical sense. Alternatives like "first and then" are much clearer.

What can I use instead of "initially subsequently" to indicate a sequence of events?

Instead of "initially subsequently", you can use clearer alternatives such as "at first and later", "initially and afterwards", or simply separate the events with 'first' and 'then'. These alternatives avoid redundancy and make your writing more precise.

How does using "initially subsequently" affect the clarity of my writing?

Using "initially subsequently" can confuse readers because it introduces unnecessary repetition and creates a logical contradiction. Clear and concise language is always preferable, so opting for alternatives like "previously and then" will improve the readability and understanding of your writing.

In what contexts is it especially important to avoid "initially subsequently"?

It's crucial to avoid "initially subsequently" in formal writing, academic papers, and professional communications where precision and clarity are paramount. Sticking to alternatives like "in the beginning and subsequently" or structuring your sentences to clearly delineate the sequence of events will enhance your credibility and ensure your message is accurately conveyed.