Definition

1. Adverb:
   • At the start; at the initial point of a process or period of time. Refers to the earliest stage or origin of something.
   • Originally; in the first instance. Used to refer to the original state or intention before any changes occurred.

Usage Examples

• Adverb:
  • In the beginning, the project seemed very simple. (At the start, the project seemed very simple.)
  • He was a carpenter in the beginning, before he became a famous architect. (Originally, he was a carpenter, before he became a famous architect.)

Advanced Usage

• "In the beginning was...": A formal or literary structure used to state a fundamental starting point, often for philosophical or historical narratives.
  • In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God. (A classic example from religious texts indicating an absolute origin.)

Variants and Related Words

• At first (phrase): Similar in meaning to 'in the beginning', used to contrast an initial state with a later one.
  • At first, I didn't understand, but then it became clear.
• Initially (adverb): At the beginning.
  • Initially, we planned to travel by train.
• Originally (adverb): As existed or was done at the beginning.
  • The house was originally painted white.

Synonyms

• At the outset
• At the start
• To begin with

Related Phrases

• From the beginning: Starting at the initial point and continuing.
  • I knew the truth from the beginning.
• In the first place: Used to introduce the first of several points or to refer back to an original reason or situation.
  • Why was he chosen in the first place?

Notes on Meaning

The phrase "in the beginning" specifically refers to the point of origin or the very first stage. It is often used to set the scene for a story or to explain how something was before it changed. It is not typically used for the start of routine, repeated actions (for which "at the beginning" is more common, e.g., "at the beginning of the lesson").

Adverb

1. before now
   • why didn't you tell me in the first place?
2. with reference to the origin or beginning