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.

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

Officers would remain at the site overnight, police said, with further searches resuming at first light on Tuesday.

From BBC • Jun. 1, 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

He came to Congress in 2017, living at first in an apartment with other members of Congress and staff.

From Salon • May 29, 2026

So she was nice at first, saying, ‘It’s for the best, sweetheart. He needs more care.’

From "Not Nothing" by Gayle Forman