Synonyms for

Initial

Verb / ˌɪˈnɪʃʌl / Another word for initial — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

relating to the beginning or first stages of something

Synonyms & similar words

first starting opening preliminary introductory incipient nascent beginning commencing embryonic incipient incipiently preliminary primary rudimentary starting nascent germinal inceptive inchoate

Synonyms by register

Formal

original primary inaugural preliminary

Informal

first opening starting beginning

Literary

rudimentary nascent embryonic

Antonyms

final concluding terminal ultimate ending subsequent later

Common collocations

  • initial stages
  • initial reaction
  • initial assessment
  • initial contact
  • initial phase
  • initial thoughts
  • initial investment

Word family

noun initiation
verb initiate
adjective initial
adverb initially

Usage note

Often used to describe the first part or beginning of something. Can also refer to the first letter of a name, as in 'initials'.

Example sentences

  1. The initial step in baking a cake is to preheat the oven.
  2. She made an initial attempt to climb the tree but failed.
  3. The initial cost of the project was higher than expected.
  4. I received an initial letter from my pen pal.
  5. His initial reaction was one of shock.

Quotes

  • “The initial mystery that attends any journey is: how did the traveler reach his starting point in the first place?” - Louise Bogan
  • “The beginning is the most important part of the work.” - Plato
  • “All great deeds and all great thoughts have a ridiculous beginning.” - Albert Camus

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