What does initially mean?
Initially is an adverb meaning “at first” or “at the beginning.” It identifies the earliest stage of an action, process, or situation and commonly prepares the listener or reader for a later development. For example, a plan may be initially approved, revised, or rejected, with the word indicating that an earlier status was not necessarily permanent. The term is frequent in news reporting, academic writing, business communication, and ordinary conversation because it efficiently places an event in time without requiring a full subordinate clause such as “at the beginning.” Although initially and originally are sometimes used interchangeably, they emphasize different aspects: initially focuses on the first phase or condition, while originally can focus on a source, first version, or earliest purpose. Initially is not synonymous with immediately; it does not imply that the next event follows without delay.
adverbAt first or at the beginning of a process, period, or sequence.
- At the beginning of a process or sequence, before later developments.
"The road was initially closed because of flooding, but it reopened the following morning."
"Initially, the proposal was met with strong resistance from several committee members."
"The software was initially designed for researchers, although its uses soon became much more widespread."
Initially is a time marker with a built-in sequel: it tells us what happened first, leaving the story free to change.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does initially come from?
Initially was formed in the early 17th century from the Latin adjective initialis, meaning “beginning” or “original,” with the English adverbial suffix -ly. Latin initialis came from initium, “a beginning,” which was derived from inire, “to begin.” The same root also produced English words including initial, initiate, initiation, and initiative.
How initially is actually used
Initially is neutral in register and common in formal, professional, and informal contexts. It often introduces a temporary or superseded situation, so it should not be used when the later state is not relevant.
Easily confused with initially
Initially means at the beginning, whereas immediately means at once or without delay.