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.

“Stick to the basics at first before branching out.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 6, 2026

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

My mother called me down for supper, but I pretended at first to have a headache.

From "Firegirl" by Tony Abbott