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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
we firstly
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
"we firstly" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to something that is the first step in a sequence of actions or ideas. For example: We firstly discussed the benefits of the project, before moving on to look at the risks.
✓ Grammatically correct
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
60 human-written examples
We firstly suppose that.
We firstly estimate I 21.
We firstly give the definition.
We firstly illustrate related works.
Science
(ii) We firstly suppose that.
Proof We firstly prove (4.1).
We firstly train D e.
We firstly consider the case.
Science
Here, we firstly introduce the following assumptions.
We firstly determine the dominant color.
We firstly list some notations as follows.
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "we firstly" when outlining a structured argument or a sequence of actions, especially in academic or technical writing. It clearly signals the beginning of a planned progression.
Common error
Avoid using "we firstly" in casual conversation or informal writing. Alternatives like "first of all" or "to begin with" are often more appropriate and natural-sounding in those situations.
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "we firstly" functions as an adverbial phrase used to introduce the initial step in a process, argument, or series of actions. As Ludwig AI suggests, it sets the stage for a structured presentation. Examples demonstrate its use in academic and scientific contexts.
Frequent in
Science
92%
Formal & Business
4%
News & Media
2%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
1%
Wiki
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "we firstly" is a grammatically correct adverbial phrase, primarily used to introduce the initial step in a process or argument, especially within formal and scientific writing. As Ludwig AI states, it indicates the beginning of a structured explanation. While highly common in academic and research contexts, alternative phrases like "first of all" or "to begin with" might be more appropriate in informal settings. Therefore, consider the context and target audience when deciding whether to use this phrase.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
first of all
Emphasizes order and sequence more strongly.
to begin with
Suggests a starting point in a more general sense.
initially
Focuses on the starting point in time.
in the first place
Highlights the primary reason or consideration.
at the outset
Implies the very beginning of a process or discussion.
as a first step
Highlights the introductory action in a series.
to start with
Similar to "to begin with" but slightly less formal.
first and foremost
Emphasizes the importance of the initial point.
principally
Highlights the main or primary aspect.
primarily
Focuses on the most important aspect initially.
FAQs
How can I use "we firstly" in a sentence?
Use "we firstly" to introduce the initial step in a sequence of actions or points. For example, "We firstly analyzed the data, then we drew our conclusions."
What are some alternatives to "we firstly"?
You can use alternatives such as "first of all", "to begin with", or "initially" depending on the context.
Is it correct to use "firstly" in formal writing?
Yes, "firstly" is generally considered acceptable in formal writing, especially when outlining a series of points. However, using "first of all" can sometimes sound more natural.
What's the difference between "we firstly" and "first"?
"We firstly" is an adverbial phrase emphasizing the initial action taken by a group. "First" is a simpler adjective or adverb that indicates order. The choice depends on the desired level of formality and emphasis.
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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
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested