Definition of Initially
Quick Meaning of Initially
At the start or beginning; in the first place or at first.
Detailed Definition of Initially
At the beginning or first stage; at first.
How to Pronounce Initially
Stress pattern: Oooo (4-syllable word).
Tip: Stress on first syllable /ɪ/. Four syllables: i-NISH-uh-lee. The final syllable has a schwa vowel /li/.
Watch out: Sometimes mispronounced as three syllables /ɪˈnɪʃli/ without the schwa; include the vowel sound.
Origin and Etymology of Initially
Adverbial form of 'initial', from Latin 'initium' (beginning) with -ly suffix.
How to Use Initially in a Sentence
Each example shows “initially” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“Initially, I was nervous about speaking in public.”
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“The team initially planned to finish by Friday.”
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“Initially, the research seemed promising, but later results contradicted the findings.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Initially
Common Synonyms for Initially
Smart Synonyms for Initially — When to Use Each
- at first
- most common informal way to say initially
- originally
- emphasizes the first intention or plan
- ultimately
- opposite meaning—the final outcome
Antonyms of Initially
Common Collocations with Initially
These phrases pair with “initially” in everyday English:
- initially planned
- initially thought
- initially seemed
- initially proposed
- initially believed
Common Mistakes When Using Initially
Even fluent speakers slip up with “initially”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: Initially that I thought the answer was correct.
- ✓ Correct: Initially, I thought the answer was correct.
- Why: 'Initially' is an adverb that modifies the clause; don't use 'that' after it. Use a comma to separate.
- ✗ Wrong: Initially, he think the plan would fail.
- ✓ Correct: Initially, he thought the plan would fail.
- Why: Past context requires past tense 'thought', not present 'think'.
Other Forms of Initially
Frequently Asked Questions About Initially
What is the meaning of "Initially"?
At the start or beginning; in the first place or at first.
How do you pronounce "Initially"?
The IPA is /ɪˈnɪʃəli/. Stress on first syllable /ɪ/. Four syllables: i-NISH-uh-lee. The final syllable has a schwa vowel /li/.
What part of speech is "Initially"?
"Initially" is an adverb at B1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Initially"?
Common synonyms include at first, at the start, originally.
How do you use "Initially" in a sentence?
For example: "Initially, I was nervous about speaking in public."