to begin with

ADVERB

first

Synonyms

STRONGEST

initially originally

WEAK

ahead at the outset before all else beforehand in the first place to start with

Antonyms

WEAK

finally last

ADVERB

for openers

Synonyms

WEAK

first off for starters

ADVERB

originally

Synonyms

STRONGEST

basically formerly

STRONG

primitively

WEAK

at first at the outset at the start by birth by origin first in the beginning in the first place incipiently primarily

Antonyms

WEAK

secondarily

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.

Downing Street has said the outgoing prime minister has authorised access talks to begin with "prospective candidates" to be the next Labour leader.

From BBC • Jun. 23, 2026

But logic can’t win out — you don’t even remember how you got into this labyrinth to begin with.

From Salon • Jun. 15, 2026

SpaceX’s initial public offering is set to begin, with an IPO valuation of approximately $1.75 trillion.

From Barron's • Jun. 12, 2026

The fleet of these tankers is not large to begin with — only about 950 VLCCs are in service globally, according to Kpler.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 1, 2026

Abby’s mom walked out as I dabbed a second coat onto a star that really didn’t need it to begin with.

From "Hope Springs" by Jaime Berry

to begin with

Example Sentences

Related Words