At first
Example: At first, I found the math problem very difficult.
Definition
"At first" is an adverbial phrase used to describe the initial stage or beginning of a situation or experience. It indicates what happens or is thought initially, often before changes or developments occur, as in "At first, I found the math problem very difficult."
Etymology
The phrase "at first" combines the preposition "at," indicating a specific point, with "first," derived from Old English "fyrst," meaning foremost or earliest. Together, they emphasize the earliest point in time or sequence. Did you know? "First" is related to the German word "erst," showing its deep Germanic roots.
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"At first" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - General - Idioms and Proverbs - (A1) - set 1", containing 104 commonly used expressions.
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