Definition

1. Adverb:
   • At the beginning; at the start: "Initially" refers to the first stage of a process, event, or situation, before any changes or developments occur.

Usage

"Initially" is used to describe the state of something at its commencement. It often introduces the first part of a sequence or contrasts a starting point with a later outcome. It is typically placed at the beginning of a sentence or clause.

Examples

• Adverb:
  • Initially, the project seemed very simple. (At the beginning, the project seemed very simple.)
  • She was initially hesitant to accept the offer. (She was hesitant to accept the offer at the start.)
  • The plan, initially proposed in March, has now been revised. (The plan, proposed at the beginning in March, has now been revised.)

Advanced Usage

• "Initially, ... but/although ...": This structure is common for showing a contrast between a first impression or state and a subsequent one.
  • Initially, I thought he was unfriendly, but I soon realized he was just shy.
• Positioning for emphasis: While often sentence-initial, "initially" can be placed before the main verb or after an auxiliary verb for stylistic variation.
  • The system was initially designed for a smaller user base.

Variants and Related Words

• Initial (adj): Existing or occurring at the beginning.
  • My initial reaction was one of surprise.
• Initiate (verb): To cause a process or action to begin.
  • They will initiate the new procedures tomorrow.

Synonyms

• At first: At the beginning.
• Originally: From or in the beginning.
• In the beginning: At the start of a period or process.

Antonyms

• Finally: After a long time, typically involving difficulty or delay.
• Eventually: In the end, especially after a long delay, dispute, or series of problems.
• Ultimately: Finally; in the end.

Adverb

1. at the beginning
   • at first he didn't notice anything strange