Definition

Adverb 1. Used to introduce the primary or most important reason, point, or factor in a discussion. It indicates that what follows is the fundamental or initial consideration. 2. Used to refer back to the beginning of a situation or sequence of events, often to express that something should have been done or considered earlier.

Usage Examples

• Introducing a primary reason:
  • We shouldn't build here. In the first place, the land is unstable.
  • In the first place, I object to the plan because it's too expensive.
• Referring back to the start of a situation:
  • Why didn't you ask for help in the first place?
  • I never should have agreed to this in the first place.

Advanced Usage

• "in the first place... in the second place...": A formal structure for listing arguments or reasons in order of importance.
  • In the first place, the data is flawed. In the second place, your conclusion doesn't follow from it.
• Used for emphasis when restating an original or fundamental argument, often in debates or persuasive writing.
  • But in the first place, who gave them the authority to make that decision?

Variants and Related Words

• First of all: A very close synonym, often used interchangeably to introduce the first point in a list.
  • First of all, let me thank you for coming.
• Primarily: Shares the meaning of being the main or most important reason.
  • The problem is primarily one of communication.
• Originally: Shares the meaning of "at the beginning" of a sequence.
  • I originally intended to leave by noon.

Synonyms

• Firstly
• To begin with
• Primarily (for the "most important reason" sense)
• Originally (for the "at the beginning" sense)

Related Phrases

• In the second place: Used to introduce the next point in a logical sequence.
  • In the first place it's illegal, and in the second place it's immoral.
• From the outset: From the very beginning.
  • The plan was flawed from the outset.

Related Idioms

• To begin at the beginning: To start an explanation from the very first point.
  • It's a long story, so I'll begin at the beginning. (This phrase shares the conceptual idea of starting with the first point, similar to "in the first place.")

Adverb

1. of primary import
   • this is primarily a question of economics
   • it was in the first place a local matter
2. before now
   • why didn't you tell me in the first place?