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.

What’s more, there are countless small yet memorable visual and narrative details to adore — things that, at first sight, look like bizarre directorial choices, but ultimately operate in the service of this gonzo story.

From Salon • Apr. 5, 2026

They tend to form gradually as confidence begins to fracture, often invisibly at first.

From Barron's • Apr. 2, 2026

Smee admits he knew little about California plants and soil at first, but he says he has since become more connected to the land.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 30, 2026

Officers there were at first confused, then alarmed by the amount she had transferred.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 30, 2026

I resist at first, but she starts to do some ridiculous dance moves and I can’t help but join her.

From "The Wrong Way Home" by Kate O’Shaughnessy