Initially

Definition

Initially is an adverb that means at the beginning or at the start of a process, event, or situation.

Parts of Speech

• Adverb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈnɪʃəli/
• Respelling: in-ISH-uh-lee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈnɪʃəli/
• Respelling: in-ISH-uh-lee

Etymology

The word "initially" is derived from the adjective "initial," which originates from the Latin "initialis," meaning "pertaining to a beginning," from "initium" (beginning). The suffix "-ly" was added to form the adverb.

Derivatives

• Initial (adjective/noun)
• Initialization (noun)
• Initialize (verb)
• Reinitialization (noun)
• Initially-based (adjective, rare)

Synonyms

• At first
• Originally
• In the beginning

Antonyms

• Finally
• Subsequently
• Later

Usage

The adverb "initially" is used to describe the early stages or the beginning of something. For instance, "The project was initially successful but faced challenges later" or "He was initially hesitant to participate."

Related Terms

• Initially: At the start or beginning of something.
• Introductory: Pertaining to the beginning or first stages of something.
• Commencement: The beginning or start of something.

Detailed Definitions

Adverb

• At the beginning or start of something: Refers to the initial stage or time frame.
  • Example: "The team initially planned to launch the product in June."
• Before changes or developments occurred: Describes the state of something prior to alterations.
  • Example: "She was initially unsure about moving to the new city."