“Firstly,” “secondly,” and “thirdly” are part of the English language. Yet somehow, many people think they’re ridiculous and pretentious.
Should you continue using these ordinal adverbs? Or should you start looking for an alternative term? This guide has everything you need to know, plus a list of synonyms of these time connectives!
Should I Use Firstly, Secondly, Thirdly?
“Firstly,” “secondly,” and “thirdly” are superfluous terms. “First,” “second,” and “third” are more acceptable words for enumerating text in writing. Experts also prefer “first” even if the other items state “secondly” and “thirdly.”
For example: “First, check if the communities are aware of the present issue.
What Kind of Connectives are Firstly, Secondly, Thirdly?
“Firstly,” “secondly,” and “thirdly” are ordinal adverbs and time connectives that join phrases and sentences. Their counterparts, “first,” “second,” and “third” are also ordinal adverbs that English experts consider more acceptable. For example:
- Good: Firstly, the current community for developers will propose an entrepreneurial workshop for the residents.
- Better: First, the current community for developers will propose an entrepreneurial workshop for the residents.
Is “Firstly” a Real Word?
Yes, “firstly” is a real word. It’s a correct way to start your sentences when enumerating specific points. For example:
- Firstly, the international language teacher assessed the most commonly used dialect within the online community.
However, the “first” sequence is more acceptable because it’s already an adverb even without the suffix “-ly.” Language experts like Webster and Johnson think that “first” should be an irregular adverb and “firstly” should be incorrect.
There’s another reason to use the ordinal adverb “first” instead of “firstly” in your traditional sequence. The following numbers may sound pretentious and silly to use, such as “seventhly” and “ninthly.”
When to Use “At First”
“At first” is not an alternative for “firstly” or “first” since it doesn’t enumerate topics in discourse. Instead, the phrase refers to “in the beginning” or “at the beginning.” For example:
- Correct: At first, I thought I had no chance to win the race.
- Incorrect: Firstly, I thought I had no chance to win the race.
The correct statement means the speaker initially thought they had no chance to win the race. If “firstly” is used instead of “first,” it assumes that there is a next point that a speaker will discuss.
- Correct: First, turn on your modem.
- Incorrect: At first, turn on your modem.
“First” is the correct term to use in determining the steps to connecting to the internet.
Is “Thirdly” Allowed?
You may use “thirdly” in your writing when enumerating key points. But as Johnson and Webster explained, “third” is preferable and less pretentious. For example:
- Good: Thirdly, the socioeconomic background of learners affects the quality of education they receive.
- Better: Third, the socioeconomic background of learners affects the quality of education they receive.
Is There a Word “Fourthly”?
As with “thirdly,” “fourthly” is correct but may not be acceptable for pedants. A safer option is the adverb “fourth.” For example:
- Good: Fourthly, I want to learn about their tangible and intangible culture.
- Better: Fourth, I want to learn about their tangible and intangible culture.
Firstly, Secondly, Thirdly Alternatives
Some synonyms of the superfluous words “firstly,” “secondly,” and “thirdly” include:
- “Next,”
- “Then,”
- “In addition.”
- “Additionally,”
- “My second reason is that…”
- “My last example is…”
- “Finally,”
You may also use a variety of sequences to avoid being redundant. For example:
- Firstly,… Second,… Third,…
- First,… Secondly,… Thirdly,…
- First,… Secondly,… Third,…
Firstly, Secondly, Thirdly in a Sentence
Firstly, the report provides a basic overview of the industry including its definition, applications, and manufacturing technology. Then, the report explores the international major industry players in detail. (Yahoo)
The issue HR faces is two-pronged. Firstly, we need to put into place actionable ways to empower more black women to reach the top. Secondly, we need to tackle the racism they experience when they get there. (People Management)
For starters, the next generation of the 7 Series will arrive in the United States with inline six, V8 and pure EV power, and there’s a 50-mile plug-in hybrid to follow them up next year. Secondly, it will be pre-equipped to deliver Level 3, eyes-off, hands-off driver assistance technology. Thirdly, it’s the first time, BMW admits, that it has ever really bothered to focus on rear-seat luxury and comfort. (Auto Blog)
More Enumeration Tips
“Firstly,” “secondly,” and “thirdly” are correct ordinal adverbs, but they aren’t your best choices when enumerating key points. Try changing them into their synonyms, “first,… second,… third,…” “then,” or “additionally.” Another alternative is to use a numbered or bullet point list.
Would you still use “firstly,” “secondly,” and “thirdly” in your writing?
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“Firstly,” “secondly,” and “thirdly” are all ways to list things out in writing. It gives a structure or order to events, and that’s great in many cases. However, there are better alternatives that it’s worth knowing about. This article will share the best ones with you.
What Can I Say Instead Of “Firstly, Secondly, Thirdly” In Writing?
To help you get better at writing out lengthy lists, you might be interested in trying one of the following alternatives:
- First of all
- First
- One example is
- Another example is
- The last example is
- To begin
- One reason is
- Another reason is
- Finally
- Most importantly
- Lastly
The preferred version is “first of all,” which would go on to be “second of all” and “third of all.” We can use them when we want to list things in order, and they all work much better in writing than “firstly,” “secondly,” and “thirdly.”
First Of All
“First of all” works well when we continue the list with “second of all” and “third of all.” These are useful because it allows us to number our examples specifically. In writing, this flow helps many readers to understand how different things connect with each other.
We can use these forms in both formal and informal writing. That’s what makes them so useful to us, and we recommend you get used to using them. They are much more suitable formally than “firstly” and their counterparts.
Here are some examples to show you how it works:
- First of all, one of you needs to tell me where to find the key for the chest.
- Second of all, once I have opened the chest, we will follow the map that it contains to the treasure.
- Third of all, we will locate said treasure, dig it up, and split it amongst ourselves.
First
“First” also works well when we drop “of all.” We can continue the list with “second” and “third,” which again are associated with the numbers one, two, and three, respectively. It’s helpful to use a phrase like this in many written formats.
Just like “first of all,” “first” is a great choice for formal writing. Some people prefer it without the “of all” ending, which is why we thought it should be placed high on this list.
- First, I would like to discuss the matter that surrounds the pollution in our lakes.
- Second, I would like to try and find some common ground that will allow us to figure out the solution.
- Third, I would like to see evidence that new legislation has been put in place to correct the pollution problems.
One Example Is
“One example is” works well when we want to start a list. It can act like “first of all,” where we want to start a list. However, using “one example is” does not always have to begin a list, which is why it can work quite well in written cases.
Sometimes, we might just want to use “one example is” to list an example of something we spoke about before. Once that example has been stated, there might not be a reason for us to continue listing more examples.
Here are some examples:
- One example is that many chimps do not get the same diets like the ones in the wild.
- One example is that there are plenty of different ways for us to help the oceans by binning our plastics.
- One example is the theory that everything comes from nothing and how perplexing that is.
Another Example Is
“Another example is” would be the continuation from “one example is.” We can use it when we want to list a second example, which might add to the list. However, we can also stop the list after this second “example.” It does not always need to come in threes.
Here are some examples of how you might use it:
- Another example is that other zoos are not as eco-friendly as they would like the people to believe.
- Another example is that we should be working a lot harder to clean up our local parks.
- Another example is that there are plenty of ways people would tackle the trolley problem, but none of them are honest solutions.
The Last Example Is
“The last example is” would be the third installment of the “example” list from above. We can use it when we want to close out the list because we use “last” to show that no further examples will be spoken of.
You might benefit from reading through these examples to see how it works:
- The last example is that there are never enough free-roaming spaces for many of the animals in our zoos.
- The last example is that billionaires do not seem to care about the current state of the world.
- The last example is that philosophy presents problems that no one really wants to solve.
To Begin
“To begin” is a great way to start a list. It’s much more open-ended than the other choices in this article. If we were going to continue on this list, we would use a phrase like “continuing on” to show that there is more to our train of thought.
These examples should help you to make more sense of it:
- To begin, I would like to discuss all the matters that we raised in the previous meeting.
- To begin, it would be wise if you told me what the problems were and how you have remedied them.
- To begin, I would like to divert your attention to the figure below, as what it contains might shock you.
One Reason Is
“One reason is” is another great way to start a list. However, just like “one example is,” it does not have to begin a list at all. We can simply use it to state a single “reason,” which we then clarify and move on to our next point.
If we wanted to continue “one reason is,” we would do so in the same way as “one example is.” They are almost identical, though “reasons” are usually explanations of a previous point, while “examples” simply show what we are talking about.
Here are a few examples to help you with it:
- One reason is that people have stopped caring about their neighbors, and the world seems further apart than ever.
- One reason is that many people are scared to go out to local supermarkets anymore.
- One reason is that the government was never designed to be a trustworthy organization.
Another Reason Is
“Another reason is” would allow us to continue the list of “one reason is.” We could also use “the last reason is” if we wanted to close the list. These phrases work well when we want to show how different reasons might impact the things we are writing about.
Here are some examples to help you understand them:
- Another reason is that the age of technology has made it even harder to socialize and make friends.
- Another reason is that online shopping just happens to be a more lucrative thing to do these days.
- Another reason is that people have become naturally more untrusting since they gained access to the news.
Finally
“Finally” works when we want to finish any list. It allows us to share our “final” point, which is usually one of the most important ones. The more important we can make the final point, the more potent our writing tends to be.
Here are a few good examples:
- Finally, I would like for you to consider why you are even reading this article if you do not care.
- Finally, I would like to know why so many people pretend that the world is fine.
- Finally, we have to figure out how to fix these issues before it’s too late.
Most Importantly
“Most importantly” is another way we can end a list. It works well to replace the final item in a list when we know it is the “most important” of all to mention. It’s a superlative phrase, which considers the final item as the one the readers should focus their attention on.
Here are a few ways we can use this one correct:
- Most importantly, I think we should all start caring a little more about each other.
- Most importantly, someone is out there right now thinking about the same thing you are.
- Most importantly, it’s not all about you, and you need to give a little back to the world.
Lastly
“Lastly” is another great way to close a list. It can replace a word like “thirdly” if there are only three items. Again, we typically want our “lastly” point to be the most important, but this does not always need to be the case, depending on what you are writing about.
Here are a few examples to show it to you:
- Lastly, I would like to thank everyone who took the time to read this message.
- Lastly, I think it’s important that we do not forget our roots.
- Lastly, I believe that someone else will be continuing on my efforts, so at least they weren’t in vain.
Martin holds a Master’s degree in Finance and International Business. He has six years of experience in professional communication with clients, executives, and colleagues. Furthermore, he has teaching experience from Aarhus University. Martin has been featured as an expert in communication and teaching on Forbes and Shopify. Read more about Martin here.
Is there a word called thirdly?
third… or firstly… secondly… thirdly…). Because first, second, and third work perfectly well as both adjectives and adverbs, some people find that adding -ly is superfluous and even a little bit pretentious.
What does Thirdly mean?
1a : one that is number three in a series — see Table of Numbers. b : one that is next after second in rank, position, authority, or precedence the third in line. 2 : one of three equal parts of something a third of the pie.
What’s another way to say third?
What is another word for third?
| tertiary | triennial |
|---|---|
| 3rd | III |
| tertian |
What comes after thirdly?
Secondly, Thirdly, Fourthly As noted earlier, few people say “firstly,” and fewer yet say “fifthly,” “sixthly,” “seventeenthly,” etc. Many adverbs do not end in -ly. It makes more sense to use second, third, and fourth rather than secondly, thirdly, and fourthly.
Should I use second or secondly?
“First of all” makes sense when you want to emphasize the primacy of the first item in a series, but it should not be followed by “second of all,” where the expression serves no such function. And “secondly” is an adverbial form that makes no sense at all in enumeration (neither does “firstly”).
What can I say instead of first?
Synonyms & Antonyms of first
- earliest,
- foremost,
- headmost,
- inaugural,
- initial,
- leadoff,
- maiden,
- original,
What can you say instead of Firstly Secondly Thirdly?
In addition…. Furthermore,…. Moreover,….. The second reason is……..
- “One example is….”
- “Another pertinent point…”
- “Finally…”
Can you use secondly without using firstly?
It is not customary to use firstly. Suppose you already have stated a fact and you feel the urge to add another point, you can use secondly. No need to use firstly in the first place.
Can I say firstly and lastly?
“Firstly, lastly” when listing just two points. Normally, if we which to illustrate our points, we can use firstly, secondly, lastly (or last but not least or finally).
What can I say instead of Secondly?
What is another word for secondly?
| also | furthermore |
|---|---|
| moreover | next |
| second | secondarily |
| besides | further |
| including | in the second place |
What are words like firstly Secondly called?
(Also called conjunctive adverbs, linking adverbs, or transition words.)
What comes first finally or furthermore?
And, in addition to, furthermore, moreover, besides, than, too, also, both-and, another, equally important, first, second, etc., again, further, last, finally, not only-but also, as well as, in the second place, next, likewise, similarly, in fact, as a result, consequently, in the same way, for example, for instance.
What are words I can use instead of first second and third in essays?
Always use “first,” “second,” “third,” and so on. Yes, you can use “First of all” (although just “First” would be better), then continue with “Second,” then “Third,” and so on.
What is a good transition word for second?
Transitional expressions
| LOGICAL RELATIONSHIP | TRANSITIONAL EXPRESSION |
|---|---|
| Sequence/Order | first, second, third, … next, then, finally |
| Time | after, afterward, at last, before, currently, during, earlier, immediately, later, meanwhile, now, recently, simultaneously, subsequently, then |
What can be used instead of first second and third?
Common Transitional Words and Phrases
- cause and effect: consequently, therefore, accordingly, as a result, because, for this reason, hence, thus.
- sequence: furthermore, in addition, moreover, first, second, third, finally, again, also, and, besides, further, in the first place, last, likewise, next, then, too.
Is Thirdly correct?
In most genres, no-one will object to either. However, traditionally, first, secondly, thirdly etc. is used. Only pedants will insist on this usage, but it is something to be aware of, as there are many pedants. See Fowler’s Modern English Usage (3rd edition).
Is secondly a transition word?
Transitional Words and Phrases. First, second, secondly, etc.
Is lastly a word?
in conclusion; in the last place; finally.
Is Lastly grammatically correct?
The word “lastly” is a variation of “last,” an adverb meaning “in the final position, place, or time”; it is grammatical…
What is the difference between finally and lastly?
As adverbs the difference between lastly and finally is that lastly is (sequence) while finally is at the end or conclusion; ultimately.
What’s the difference between last and lastly?
You usually use last to say that an event is the final one in a series of similar events. You use lastly when you are talking about events which are not similar. For example, if you say `George phoned his aunt last’, you usually mean that George had phoned several people and that his aunt was the last person he phoned.
What word can I use instead of finally?
other words for finally
- certainly.
- completely.
- definitely.
- permanently.
- lastly.
- assuredly.
- in conclusion.
- once and for all.
Asked by: Vanessa Hilpert
Score: 4.1/5
(56 votes)
You should use first, second, and third to show textual enumerations in your writing. Many authorities prefer first, not firstly, even when the remaining items or points are introduced with secondly and thirdly. Example: First, through practice you will develop a better style.
Do you say third or thirdly?
As noted earlier, few people say «firstly,» and fewer yet say «fifthly,» «sixthly,» «seventeenthly,» etc. Many adverbs do not end in -ly. It makes more sense to use second, third, and fourth rather than secondly, thirdly, and fourthly.
Do we say Fourthly?
You say fourthly when you want to make a fourth point or give a fourth reason for something. Fourthly, the natural enthusiasm of the student teachers should be maintained.
Is there a comma after firstly?
one should use commas after their transition word or phrase that starts a new sentence. However, the example sentences in Cambridge Dictionary seem to invalidate this rule. Firstly I would like to thank you for your kind offer of a job … Firstly the sodium chloride is dissolved in the water and heated gently.
What can I use instead of Firstly Secondly Thirdly?
Re: Is there any alternative to «First, Secondly,thirdly…»? «Last but not least» is used quite commonly. It sums up a list, and re-inforces the importance of all of the points. «Last but definitely not least» may also be used.
36 related questions found
What can I say instead of first?
Synonyms & Antonyms of first
- earliest,
- foremost,
- headmost,
- inaugural,
- initial,
- leadoff,
- maiden,
- original,
What can I say instead of start?
- begin,
- commence,
- embark (on or upon),
- enter (into or upon),
- fall (to),
- get off,
- kick off,
- launch,
How do you use first and second in a sentence?
Yes, that’s grammatically correct. Often, writers using ordinals (e.g., first, second) in a sentence will delimit them with commas: Accordingly, this Court must first read through the case, and second determine whether the plaintiff makes a strong case.
How do you use firstly in a sentence?
We venture out together in the early evening, firstly visiting the shopping plaza next door. Firstly , the children participated in Literacy lessons concerning regular and irregular plurals. Firstly , there is currently no facility for measuring circular polarization.
Should I use first or firstly?
Even though they are both adverbs, ‘first’ and ‘firstly’ are hardly interchangeable in all situations: we never say “I firstly noticed it yesterday.» One might say «firstly, what are you doing in my home?» or «firstly, I hope you have insurance»—but if you want to avoid criticism, ‘first’ is the best bet for most …
What is another word for Fourthly?
In this page you can discover 6 synonyms, antonyms, idiomatic expressions, and related words for fourthly, like: fourth, sixthly, thirdly, fifthly, secondly and lastly.
Is Sixthly a real word?
In the sixth place; sixth in a row.
Is thirdly a real word?
secondly… thirdly…). Because first, second, and third work perfectly well as both adjectives and adverbs, some people find that adding -ly is superfluous and even a little bit pretentious. In other words, it is grammatical overkill.
Is firstly formal or informal?
You can use either first or firstly as an adverb to introduce a statement that is the first in a series of statements. The use of firstly is more formal. Similarly, you can also use second, third, etc. instead of secondly, thirdly, etc. to refer to further points or statements.
How do you use first second third in a sentence?
First, I grabbed a spoon. Second, I ate the cereal. Third, I drank the milk. Finally, I tossed the bowl in the dish washer.
What do you call words like first then next?
Sequencers are words that organize your writing and speaking, words like first , next , then , after that , and finally . We often use sequencers in English when we give instructions, describe a process, or tell stories.
How do you write a good opening sentence?
Examples of Great First Sentences (And How They Did It)
- Revealing Personal Information. “School was hard for me, for lots of reasons.” – …
- Mirroring the Reader’s Pain. …
- Asking the Reader a Question. …
- Shock the Reader. …
- Intrigue the Reader. …
- Lead with a Bold Claim. …
- Be Empathetic and Honest. …
- Invite the Reader In.
How do you start a good paragraph?
Here’s how:
- First, write a topic sentence that summarizes your point. This is the first sentence of your paragraph.
- Next, write your argument, or why you feel the topic sentence is true.
- Finally, present your evidence (facts, quotes, examples, and statistics) to support your argument.
What do you use after first of all?
Typical use would be one of the following:
- «First of all,» for the first point and «Second,» for the second point.
- «First of all,» for the first point and «Secondly,» for the second point.
- «First,» for the first point and «Second,» for the second point.
Should I use second or secondly?
You should use first, second, and third to show textual enumerations in your writing. Many authorities prefer first, not firstly, even when the remaining items or points are introduced with secondly and thirdly. Example: First, through practice you will develop a better style.
How do you say first in an essay?
first off
- first of all.
- first thing.
- firstly.
- foremost.
- immediately.
- in the first place.
- primo.
- up front.
What is signal word?
Signal words are specific words that you can use to transition between the different ideas in your paper clearly and organically.
How can I start a sentence without using I?
The Quick Fix
- Start with a prepositional phrase. A propositional phrase lets us know where the subject of the sentence is in time or space, or what the relationship is between two entities. …
- Swap the clauses. …
- Cut out unnecessary actions. …
- Avoid filter phrases (I thought, I saw, I heard).
What is the start of something called?
1 initiation, inauguration, inception. 2 start, commencement, outset, onset, arising, emergence.