At first

adverb

In the beginning, before everything else.

At first, she was shy and reserved, but she soon opened up and made a lot of friends.
Visual representation of "at first" - In the beginning, before everything else

Often appears as...

  • at first glance
  • at first sight
adverb

Initially, as the first of a series of actions.

At first, I didn't like broccoli, but now it's my favorite vegetable.
Visual representation of "at first" - Initially, as the first of a series of actions

Often appears as...

  • at first thought
  • at first try
adverb

In the initial stage or beginning of a process or occurrence.

At first, the task seemed impossible, but we eventually got it done.
Visual representation of "at first" - In the initial stage or beginning of a process or occurrence

Often appears as...

  • at first instance
  • at first impression
adverb

In the beginning, before everything else.

At first, she was shy and reserved, but she soon opened up and made a lot of friends.
Visual representation of "at first" - In the beginning, before everything else

Often appears as...

  • at first glance
  • at first sight
adverb

Initially, as the first of a series of actions.

At first, I didn't like broccoli, but now it's my favorite vegetable.
Visual representation of "at first" - Initially, as the first of a series of actions

Often appears as...

  • at first thought
  • at first try
adverb

In the initial stage or beginning of a process or occurrence.

At first, the task seemed impossible, but we eventually got it done.
Visual representation of "at first" - In the initial stage or beginning of a process or occurrence

Often appears as...

  • at first instance
  • at first impression
Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "at first"
LampPro Tip 1/2

Initial Reaction

Use 'at first' to talk about how someone responds when they encounter something new.

Illustration for Initial Reaction
At first, he laughed at the idea, but later he took it seriously.
LampPro Tip 2/2

Early Stages

Describe the early stages of an experience or feeling that changes over time.

Illustration for Early Stages
At first, the book was confusing, but it became clearer as I read on.
LampPro Tip 1/2

Initial Reaction

Use 'at first' to talk about how someone responds when they encounter something new.

Illustration for Initial Reaction
At first, he laughed at the idea, but later he took it seriously.
LampPro Tip 2/2

Early Stages

Describe the early stages of an experience or feeling that changes over time.

Illustration for Early Stages
At first, the book was confusing, but it became clearer as I read on.
LampPro Tip 1/2

Initial Reaction

Use 'at first' to talk about how someone responds when they encounter something new.

Illustration for Initial Reaction
At first, he laughed at the idea, but later he took it seriously.
LampPro Tip 2/2

Early Stages

Describe the early stages of an experience or feeling that changes over time.

Illustration for Early Stages
At first, the book was confusing, but it became clearer as I read on.
Visual representation of the word "At first"

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