at first

1. Initially, at the start, as in At first the berries were green, but when they ripened they turned bright red. [Second half of 1500s]

Example Sentences

The actor and writer from Pontypool in south Wales said she found her diagnosis "tricky" at first, partly because of the "cookie-cutter" way autism was portrayed in the media.

From BBC

Public opinion in Norway was against her at first.

From BBC

They at first walked away but then went back to him.

From BBC

“My friend sent me a video, and at first I thought she was pranking me,” the 20-year-old from Nashville told Slate—and not just because the concept of an “A.I. actress” is already baffling enough.

From Slate

At first I posted it kind of lighthearted, like, “Oh, ha, she looks like me.”

From Slate

Related Words

• basically 
• formerly