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First of all

🇬🇧 UK //fɜːst əv ɔːl// 🇺🇸 US //fɜrst əv ɔl//

Meaning of First of all

A phrase used to indicate the first point or reason in a discussion.

In simple words: To start with; the first point to mention.

First of all in a sentence

• First of all, we need to discuss the budget for next year.
• I want to say, first of all, thank you for your support.
• First of all, let’s review the schedule for the project.
• First of all, we must understand the problem before we can solve it.
• When planning the event, first of all, we should decide on the date.

How to use First of all

Often used to introduce the first point in a list. Appropriate in both spoken and written contexts. Avoid in very formal settings.

Grammar pattern

standalone phrase

Memory hint

Remember it as 'the first step in a big talk.'

Related words

Collocations with First of all

• first of all, we need
• first of all, let's discuss
• first of all, thank you
• first of all, I want to
• first of all, remember

Synonyms for First of all

• to start with
• firstly
• initially
• in the beginning
• primarily

Common mistakes with First of all

• Using it in the middle of a sentence instead of at the beginning.
• Confusing with 'firstly', which is more formal.
• Omitting 'of all' and saying only 'first'.

Frequently asked questions about First of all

What does First of all mean?

To start with; the first point to mention.

What is the definition of First of all?

A phrase used to indicate the first point or reason in a discussion.

How do you use First of all in a sentence?

First of all, we need to discuss the budget for next year.

Can you give another example of First of all?

I want to say, first of all, thank you for your support.

What are synonyms for First of all?

Common alternatives include to start with, firstly, initially, in the beginning, primarily.

What words go with First of all?

It commonly pairs with first of all, we need, first of all, let's discuss, first of all, thank you, first of all, I want to, first of all, remember.

What are common mistakes when using First of all?

Using it in the middle of a sentence instead of at the beginning. Confusing with 'firstly', which is more formal. Omitting 'of all' and saying only 'first'.

How do you pronounce First of all?

US: //fɜrst əv ɔl//, UK: //fɜːst əv ɔːl//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use First of all?

Often used to introduce the first point in a list. Appropriate in both spoken and written contexts. Avoid in very formal settings.