firstly

[furst-lee]

adverb

1. in the first place; first.

firstly

/ ˈfɜːstlɪ /

adverb

1. coming before other points, questions, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of firstly¹

First recorded in 1525–35; first + -ly

Example Sentences

Consultants eventually referred the grandfather for palliative care, firstly at home - where he was prescribed heavy dosages of morphine by the local health centre - and then at Borders General Hospital from 15 May 2023.

From BBC

Then the gang changed its name twice more - firstly to al-Millah, the nickname of the shadowy third gang leader, and then to Kaka, which means Brother but is also, we believe, another of his nicknames.

From BBC

This was firstly conceived as a plane that would use advanced materials and the latest technology to carry up to 250 passengers at just under the speed of sound.

From BBC

This is a week of muscular language and intent, firstly primarily on legal migration now, and in a few days on illegal migration too.

From BBC

James and Robins have worked together for more than a decade - firstly on XFM and now for the BBC - but have been friends for much longer.

From BBC

Related Words

• essentially 
• mostly 

When To Use

What does firstly mean?

Firstly means in the first place or first, as in Firstly, I did study for the test, and secondly, the test was long and difficult.You will most often see firstly at the start of a sentence that details a first point in an argument. Sentences that detail other points in the argument may begin with second, secondly, and similar terms that number (that is, enumerate) your points.Example: Firstly, I’d like to point out that I was never on the site on that day.