firstly
Americanadverb
adverb
Usage
What does firstly mean? Firstly means in the first place or first, as in Firstly, I did study for the test, and secondly, the test was long and difficult. You will most often see firstly at the start of a sentence that details a first point in an argument. Sentences that detail other points in the argument may begin with second, secondly, and similar terms that number (that is, enumerate) your points. Example: Firstly, I’d like to point out that I was never on the site on that day.
Etymology
Origin of firstly
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
"Firstly, there needs to be political will. Secondly, a simplified visa policy. And thirdly, well-developed infrastructure," a Western diplomat in Ashgabat told AFP on condition of anonymity.
From Barron's • Jun. 23, 2026
Firstly, the market often does the opposite of what investors expect, McElligott said.
From MarketWatch • May 28, 2026
"Our results have far-reaching implications. Firstly, it refutes the hypothesis that any organics found in fossils must result from contamination."
From Science Daily • May 14, 2026
Firstly there will be electrification and other improvements on routes between Leeds and Bradford, as well as Sheffield and York.
From BBC • May 13, 2026
"Firstly, I have a few special gifts for you."
From "The Belles" by Dhonielle Clayton
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.
