at first
IdiomsExample Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Reluctant at first to talk to Mr. Harris, the “fiercely private” Mr. David eventually agrees to numerous interviews.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 9, 2026
Manning did it alone at first, using only his voice to break down quarterbacks.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 8, 2026
“Maybe at first it felt Big Brotherish, but my mom realizes now that she needs to hand this over to me.”
From MarketWatch ● Oct. 6, 2026
The couple said they "fell in love" with the island at first sight, due to it having the "complete scenery of Scotland".
From BBC ● Oct. 3, 2026
“You know you can tell me anything—even if I get upset at first, I’m always going to calm down and be there for you. Both you and Arlo.”
From "Split the Sky" by Marie Arnold
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
