B1adverb 1K

Originally

🇬🇧 UK /["/əˈrɪdʒənəli/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/əˈrɪdʒənəli/"]/

Meaning of Originally

used to describe the situation that existed at the beginning of a particular period or activity, especially before something was changed

In simple words: at first; from the beginning

Originally in a sentence

• The school was originally very small.
• Originally, we had intended to go to Italy, but then we won the trip to Greece.
• Laib **originally planned** to be a doctor.
• She comes originally from York.
• The dam project was originally conceived in 1977.
• They originally thought she had a muscular injury.
• Chloe hails originally from Texas.
• The book was originally published in 1935.
• The work was originally scheduled to begin in July.

How to use Originally

Use 'originally' to indicate the first version or time something was the case. It's appropriate in both speaking and writing but avoid in highly formal settings when discussing more complex ideas.

Grammar pattern

originally + clause

Memory hint

Think of 'origin' — where it all started.

Related words

Collocations with Originally

• originally from
• originally intended
• originally created

Synonyms for Originally

• initially
• at first
• from the beginning
• originally speaking

Opposites of Originally

• currently
• recently

Common mistakes with Originally

• Using 'original' instead of 'originally' as an adverb.
• Confusing 'originally' with 'initially' — while similar, 'originally' emphasizes the original state before changes.

Frequently asked questions about Originally

What does Originally mean?

at first; from the beginning

What is the definition of Originally?

used to describe the situation that existed at the beginning of a particular period or activity, especially before something was changed

How do you use Originally in a sentence?

The school was originally very small.

Can you give another example of Originally?

Originally, we had intended to go to Italy, but then we won the trip to Greece.

What are synonyms for Originally?

Common alternatives include initially, at first, from the beginning, originally speaking.

What is the opposite of Originally?

Opposite meanings include currently, recently.

What words go with Originally?

It commonly pairs with originally from, originally intended, originally created.

What are common mistakes when using Originally?

Using 'original' instead of 'originally' as an adverb. Confusing 'originally' with 'initially' — while similar, 'originally' emphasizes the original state before changes.

How do you pronounce Originally?

US: /["/əˈrɪdʒənəli/"]/, UK: /["/əˈrɪdʒənəli/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Originally?

Use 'originally' to indicate the first version or time something was the case. It's appropriate in both speaking and writing but avoid in highly formal settings when discussing more complex ideas.

What CEFR level is Originally?

"Originally" is at B1 level on the CEFR scale.