20 Other Ways to Say “Firstly, Secondly, Thirdly” (With Examples)

When writing or speaking, it’s important to maintain variety and flow, especially when enumerating points or steps in a process. Phrases like “Firstly, Secondly, Thirdly” are commonly used, but overusing them can make your speech or writing sound repetitive. Luckily, there are plenty of other ways to organize your ideas while keeping your language fresh.

List of All Synonyms

1. To begin with
2. First and foremost
3. As a first step
4. To start off with
5. First of all
6. In the first place
7. To kick things off
8. Primarily
9. The first point to consider
10. Initially
11. In the beginning
12. As the first point
13. In the first instance
14. At the outset
15. First and foremost
16. To initiate
17. Let’s begin with
18. To open
19. In the initial phase
20. To start things off

1. “To begin with”

Introduction:
This phrase is a simple way to introduce your first point or idea.
Definition: Used to start a series of statements or arguments.
Meaning: Indicates the beginning of a discussion or list of ideas.
Tone: Neutral, formal.
Example: “To begin with, we need to address the budget concerns.”
Explanation: “To begin with” is an ideal choice when starting a new idea or argument in a structured manner.

2. “First and foremost”

Introduction:
This expression emphasizes the most important point to discuss.
Definition: Indicates the most significant or urgent item on the list.
Meaning: Prioritizes the first point as crucial or primary.
Tone: Formal, emphatic.
Example: “First and foremost, safety should always be our top priority.”
Explanation: This phrase is often used to stress the importance of the first point.

3. “As a first step”

Introduction:
This phrase is often used when outlining a process or procedure.
Definition: Refers to the first action or step in a series.
Meaning: Suggests an initial action before progressing further.
Tone: Neutral, procedural.
Example: “As a first step, we need to gather all the necessary data.”
Explanation: This is a helpful way to start when providing instructions or outlining processes.

4. “To start off with”

Introduction:
This phrase is casual and used to begin your discussion or explanation.
Definition: Introduces the first point in a series.
Meaning: Indicates the beginning of an argument, list, or explanation.
Tone: Informal, conversational.
Example: “To start off with, let’s talk about the financial aspects of the project.”
Explanation: It’s a good phrase for a conversational or more relaxed setting.

5. “First of all”

Introduction:
This is a common phrase used to begin a list of points or steps.
Definition: Used to introduce the initial point or argument.
Meaning: Marks the first thing to be discussed or addressed.
Tone: Neutral, formal.
Example: “First of all, we need to make sure that everyone understands the rules.”
Explanation: This is an easy-to-use phrase to begin any list or set of instructions.

6. “In the first place”

Introduction:
This phrase helps emphasize the beginning of a list or sequence.
Definition: Marks the start of a process, sequence, or argument.
Meaning: Used to introduce the first point in a logical or ordered argument.
Tone: Formal, logical.
Example: “In the first place, we should discuss the goals for the upcoming year.”
Explanation: This phrase is often used in more formal, analytical contexts.

7. “To kick things off”

Introduction:
A casual, energetic way to begin a discussion or list.
Definition: Starts the conversation or presentation on a lively note.
Meaning: Initiates something with energy and enthusiasm.
Tone: Informal, enthusiastic.
Example: “To kick things off, let’s look at the overall plan for the project.”
Explanation: This phrase works well in informal settings, especially when you want to bring energy into your introduction.

8. “Primarily”

Introduction:
This word is perfect when focusing on the first or most important aspect of your argument.
Definition: Refers to something of primary importance.
Meaning: Highlights the primary or most important factor in your series.
Tone: Formal, academic.
Example: “Primarily, we need to consider the environmental impact of the plan.”
Explanation: This is a formal, structured way of introducing the first point in your series.

9. “The first point to consider”

Introduction:
A clear and direct phrase for listing your first point or argument.
Definition: An introductory phrase used to list the first item in a discussion.
Meaning: Marks the very first point that needs to be addressed.
Tone: Formal, straightforward.
Example: “The first point to consider is whether the project is feasible within the timeline.”
Explanation: This phrase keeps things direct and to the point.

10. “Initially”

Introduction:
Used to introduce the very first step or element in a process.
Definition: Marks the starting point or first stage of a discussion.
Meaning: Refers to the beginning of something.
Tone: Neutral, formal.
Example: “Initially, we’ll focus on gathering data from various sources.”
Explanation: This is often used in professional or technical contexts.

11. “In the beginning”

Introduction:
A slightly broader phrase that introduces the first part of a sequence.
Definition: Refers to the start of an event or process.
Meaning: Describes the initial stage or period of time.
Tone: Neutral, descriptive.
Example: “In the beginning, there was only one team working on the project.”
Explanation: This phrase works well when talking about events or processes over time.

12. “As the first point”

Introduction:
This phrase specifically introduces the first element or aspect you want to discuss.
Definition: Used to identify the first point or argument in a list.
Meaning: Makes clear which point is being introduced as the first.
Tone: Formal, precise.
Example: “As the first point, we need to review the financial implications of the decision.”
Explanation: This phrase is often used in formal settings to introduce a structured argument.

13. “In the first instance”

Introduction:
This phrase is used to describe the first occurrence or event in a series.
Definition: Refers to the first step or stage of something.
Meaning: Marks the initial part of a sequence or series.
Tone: Formal, procedural.
Example: “In the first instance, we’ll assess the immediate needs of the team.”
Explanation: This phrase is particularly helpful in legal or procedural contexts.

14. “At the outset”

Introduction:
A formal way to refer to the very start of a process or discussion.
Definition: Refers to the beginning or initial stage of something.
Meaning: Marks the commencement of an action or event.
Tone: Formal, serious.
Example: “At the outset, we must ensure all stakeholders are on board with the plan.”
Explanation: This phrase works best in formal discussions or presentations.

15. “First and foremost”

Introduction:
This phrase emphasizes that your first point is the most important.
Definition: Used to introduce the most significant item in a sequence.
Meaning: Prioritizes the first point as being of utmost importance.
Tone: Emphatic, formal.
Example: “First and foremost, we must address the budget constraints.”
Explanation: This phrase underscores the importance of the first point, setting the tone for the rest of the discussion.

16. “To initiate”

Introduction:
This word is used to begin a discussion or process.
Definition: Means to begin or start something, especially formally.
Meaning: Signals the start of an activity or series.
Tone: Formal, process-oriented.
Example: “To initiate, we will analyze the current market conditions.”
Explanation: A professional and procedural way to start a process.

17. “Let’s begin with”

Introduction:
A conversational way to start a list of points or topics.
Definition: A phrase used to indicate the start of a discussion.
Meaning: Begins the conversation or presentation on a particular topic.
Tone: Casual, engaging.
Example: “Let’s begin with the most pressing issue: the budget.”
Explanation: This is a simple and easy-to-remember phrase for informal and formal settings alike.

18. “To open”

Introduction:
A concise way to introduce the first part of something.
Definition: Refers to the act of opening or beginning something.
Meaning: Marks the opening of an event, idea, or argument.
Tone: Neutral, formal.
Example: “To open, we’ll first discuss the project’s main objectives.”
Explanation: This is a quick and efficient way to introduce the first part of a discussion.

19. “In the initial phase”

Introduction:
This phrase refers to the beginning stage of a process or sequence.
Definition: Refers to the first phase or stage of something.
Meaning: Describes the early part of an event or process.
Tone: Formal, technical.
Example: “In the initial phase, we’ll focus on gathering data.”
Explanation: Ideal for formal contexts where you’re discussing stages or phases.

20. “To start things off”

Introduction:
A more casual expression used to start a discussion or process.
Definition: Refers to the action of initiating something.
Meaning: Marks the beginning of a series of events or actions.
Tone: Casual, friendly.
Example: “To start things off, let’s go over the main objectives for today.”
Explanation: This phrase is perfect for informal situations where you want to begin something in a relaxed way.

Conclusion:

Variety is key when presenting multiple points or steps in a process. By using these alternative expressions to “Firstly, Secondly, Thirdly,” you can keep your speech or writing engaging and prevent it from sounding repetitive. Whether you’re writing formally or speaking casually, these alternatives can help improve the clarity and flow of your message.

FAQs

1. Are these alternatives appropriate for formal writing?
   • Yes, many of these alternatives like “In the first place” or “At the outset” are ideal for formal writing.
2. Can these phrases be used in casual conversations?
   • Absolutely! Phrases like “To kick things off” or “Let’s begin with” are great for informal discussions.
3. How do I choose the best alternative for my context?
   • Consider the tone of your conversation or writing. For formal contexts, phrases like “Primarily” or “In the first instance” work best, while casual contexts can benefit from “To start things off” or “Let’s begin with.”
4. Are there other ways to number points without using these expressions?
   • Yes, you can also use numbered lists or bullet points to avoid using “Firstly” and similar phrases.
5. Can I use these alternatives in presentations?
   • Yes, these alternatives can help make your presentation more engaging and dynamic!