adverb
first of all
furst uv AWL
First of all (adverb) means Before anything else; used to introduce the first item in a list of points, steps or objections. Example: “First of all, preheat the oven to 180°C.”
adverb
1
Before anything else; used to introduce the first item in a list of points, steps or objections.
"First of all, preheat the oven to 180°C."
"First of all, I never agreed to that, and second, it wasn't my decision."
How to use first of all
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe thing to say or do before all the others.
When to use it
Neutral to informal. In speech it often signals mild indignation before a rebuttal ("First of all, how dare you"). Formal writing prefers firstly or first.
Memory tip
Follow it with a comma, and if you open a list with first of all, keep the sequence going with second, then, next and finally.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
first of all, let me
first of all, thank you
first of all, I want to say
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like first of all.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
_____, preheat the oven to 180°C.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
last of all
finally
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between first of all and at first?
First of all orders your points or steps: it means before anything else on the list. At first describes an earlier stage in time that later changed — "at first I hated it, but then I got used to it". They are not interchangeable.
Is it wrong to say first of all when you only make one point?
It is not wrong, but it sets up an expectation of a second point, so listeners may wait for one. If you have only one thing to say, use to begin with or simply say it.
What is the meaning of first of all?
"first of all" (adverb) means before anything else; used to introduce the first item in a list of points, steps or objections.
What is another word for first of all?
Other words for "first of all" include firstly, to begin with, for a start, in the first place.
