Confusing words explained
“original” vs “originally” — What’s the Difference?
Original is adjective. Originally is adverb modifying verbs.
Key takeaway
Quick Difference: original vs originally
Original is adjective. Originally is adverb modifying verbs.
original vs originally Side-by-Side Comparison
Meaning of original
First in existence or occurrence; unique and creative.
The first version; something new and different from copies.
Use before nouns to mean first or creative.
- This is the original painting by Picasso from 1903.
- She has very original ideas for the project.
Meaning of originally
In the beginning or at first; as it was originally.
At the start or beginning; before any changes.
Use to say how things were at the beginning before change.
- She originally planned to study medicine, but chose law instead.
- The restaurant was originally located downtown before moving.
How to Remember the Difference
Original modifies a noun (the original plan); originally modifies a verb (originally planned).
Common Mistakes with original and originally
Mistake with original
Wrong: This is an original copy of the book.
Correct: This is an original edition of the book.
'Original copy' is contradictory. Use 'edition' or 'version' instead.
Mistake with original
Wrong: His idea was very original different.
Correct: His idea was very original.
Don't add 'different' after original—it's redundant.
Mistake with originally
Wrong: She originally going to the party.
Correct: She was originally going to the party.
Need auxiliary verb 'was' before 'going' in past continuous.
Mistake with originally
Wrong: The name was original Johnson.
Correct: The name was originally Johnson.
Use adverb 'originally' not adjective 'original' after verb.
Practice Quiz: original or originally?
Choose the word that best completes each real example sentence.
Question 1
This is the _____ painting by Picasso from 1903.
Question 2
She has very _____ ideas for the project.
Question 3
The _____ script differs from the final film version.
Pick at least one answer, then press Check answers to see how you did.
You scored 0 out of 3
Frequently Asked Questions About original vs originally
What’s the difference between “original” and “originally”?
Original is adjective. Originally is adverb modifying verbs.
When should I use “original”?
Use before nouns to mean first or creative.
When should I use “originally”?
Use to say how things were at the beginning before change.
How can I remember original vs originally?
Original modifies a noun (the original plan); originally modifies a verb (originally planned).
Is it “original” or “originally” in example sentences?
Use the quiz above to test the pair with real example sentences from the available word data.