firstly
5 synonyms and 1 antonym for firstly, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adv — Used to introduce the first point in a list or argument.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use firstly
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
firstly...secondly
firstly, I would like to
Etymology
From Middle English, formed from first plus -ly.
Full origin of firstly →Frequently asked questions
What does “firstly” mean?
The word “firstly” means used to introduce the first point in a list or argument. In plain terms, a word used to signal the first item when listing points.
How do you pronounce “firstly”?
“Firstly” is pronounced FURRST-lee (/ˈfɜɹstli/ in IPA).
How do you use “firstly” in a sentence?
Here is “firstly” used in a sentence: “Firstly, we need to agree on a budget.”
What is the opposite of “firstly”?
The opposite of “firstly” — its antonyms — is lastly.
What part of speech is “firstly”?
“Firstly” is an adverb.
Where does the word “firstly” come from?
The word “firstly” comes from Middle English. From Middle English, formed from first plus -ly.
Is “firstly” a common word?
“Firstly” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between firstly and first?
Firstly and first can both be used to introduce the first point in a list or argument, and many style guides consider them interchangeable. Some writers prefer first because it is shorter and works consistently with second, third, and so on without needing the '-ly' ending.
Is firstly grammatically correct?
Yes, firstly is grammatically correct and widely used, especially in British English, though some usage guides argue that first is simpler and more consistent when listing points. Both forms are accepted in formal and academic writing.
Should firstly be followed by a comma?
Firstly is commonly followed by a comma when it begins a sentence, as in 'Firstly, we need to review the data,' because it functions as an introductory adverb separating the point from the rest of the sentence.
