at first

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Climber Chris Thrall said that at first, it was impossible to believe Sherpa had survived against the odds.

From BBC • Jun. 5, 2026

Mejia, who is running for reelection as city controller, said he showed up at a polling place and was at first told he had to register to vote.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 2, 2026

Inflation began rising sharply during the pandemic in 2021, which most policymakers and forecasters thought at first would be transitory.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 31, 2026

I asked Schenck whether his gradual shift, seeing Suozzi as more conservative than he did at first, might have been due to C Street’s influence.

From Salon • May 29, 2026

Enigma looks like a typewriter at first glance.

From "The Bletchley Riddle" by Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin