firstly

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.

“Firstly” is pronounced FURRST-lee (/ˈfɜɹstli/ in IPA).

Here is “firstly” used in a sentence: “Firstly, we need to agree on a budget.”

The opposite of “firstly” — its antonyms — is lastly.

“Firstly” is an adverb.

The word “firstly” comes from Middle English. From Middle English, formed from first plus -ly.

“Firstly” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

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.

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.

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.