Synonyms for

Initially

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

Definition

at the beginning; first

Synonyms & similar words

abinitio firstly originally primarily incipiently introductorily preliminarily incipient nascent embryonic germinal rudimentary undeveloped unfledged inchoate latent

Synonyms by register

Formal

originally principally primarily fundamentally

Informal

at first in the beginning to start with first off

Literary

erstwhile inceptive

Antonyms

finally eventually ultimately subsequently later afterward conclusively

Common collocations

  • initially planned
  • initially thought
  • initially believed
  • initially considered
  • initially proposed
  • initially appeared
  • initially stated

Word family

noun initial
adjective initial
adverb initially

Usage note

Initially is an adverb used to describe the beginning of a process or event. It is often used in formal and academic writing.

Example sentences

  1. Initially, I didn't like broccoli, but now it's my favorite vegetable.
  2. We initially thought we would go to the beach, but then we changed our minds and went to the park instead.
  3. The teacher initially gave us an easy assignment, but then she realized it was too simple and gave us a harder one.
  4. Initially, the museum was closed, but then they decided to open it for a special event.

Quotes

  • Initially, I wanted to be a veterinarian, but then I decided I was more interested in writing. - J.K. Rowling
  • Initially, I wanted to be a basketball player, but then I realized I was too short. - Kevin Hart
  • Initially, I was nervous to ask him out, but then I decided to go for it. - Unknown

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