Have you ever found yourself repeatedly saying “other ways to say for the first time” in your writing or speech? It’s one of those phrases that, though useful, can easily become repetitive and a bit stale. Whether you’re looking to spice up your language, improve your communication skills, or simply find more precise and engaging ways to express yourself, this post is here to help!
In the following sections, you’ll discover 25 creative alternatives to the overused phrase “other ways to say for the first time.” By incorporating these alternatives into your vocabulary, you’ll add flair and personality to your conversations and writing.
You’ll stand out with fresh, dynamic language that elevates your communication, making it more interesting, impactful, and memorable. Let’s dive into these options and explore how they can enhance your vocabulary and make your expressions shine!
Alternatives to “First Time”
1. Initially
Explanation:
The word “initially” highlights the beginning or start of something, often used to describe the first action or event in a sequence. It’s a formal yet versatile option that can elevate your writing and speech.
Usage Examples:
- Initially, I wasn’t sure how to approach the project, but now I feel confident.
- Her initial reaction was one of surprise and excitement.
- We met initially through mutual friends, but soon we became close.
- Initially, the idea seemed impractical, but later we saw its potential.
- The initial design of the app had some bugs, but they were quickly fixed.
Why It Works:
“Initially” sounds professional and polished, giving your sentence a sophisticated vibe while clearly indicating that you’re referring to the first moment of something.
2. At the Start
Explanation:
“At the start” is a simple and casual alternative, perfect for less formal contexts. It conveys the idea of the very beginning of an event or process.
Usage Examples:
- At the start of the meeting, we discussed the agenda.
- He was nervous at the start of his speech but gained confidence quickly.
- At the start of the journey, we had no idea what to expect.
- At the start of their relationship, they spent hours talking every day.
- She smiled at the start of the race, ready to give it her all.
Why It Works:
This expression is approachable and easy to use in everyday conversations, making it an excellent alternative when you want to keep things light but clear.
3. Originally
Explanation:
“Originally” refers to the first form or idea of something before it changed or evolved. It is ideal when you want to focus on the beginning of an idea or concept.
Usage Examples:
- Originally, I thought we’d need more time to finish the project.
- The building was originally designed as a hotel.
- Originally, she wasn’t interested in the offer but later changed her mind.
- Originally, the team had planned to meet in person, but switched to a virtual call.
- Originally, the event was meant to be small, but it grew into something much larger.
Why It Works:
Using “originally” helps you convey the early version of something, emphasizing how things have changed or evolved, offering more depth to your narrative.
4. At First
Explanation:
This phrase refers to the early stage of something, commonly used to describe how things started out before they progressed or changed.
Usage Examples:
- At first, I didn’t understand the concept, but now it’s clear.
- At first, the team struggled with communication but quickly found their rhythm.
- At first, the plan seemed too ambitious, but they pulled it off.
- At first, I didn’t think I would enjoy the movie, but it turned out to be amazing.
- At first, she was hesitant to speak up, but soon she gained confidence.
Why It Works:
“At first” is perfect for contrasting how things began versus how they evolved, giving your message more clarity and relatability.
5. In the Beginning
Explanation:
“In the beginning” is often used to describe the early stages of a process or event, and it’s great for storytelling or when explaining a sequence of events.
Usage Examples:
- In the beginning, they didn’t have much, but they worked hard to build something great.
- In the beginning, the company faced many challenges but grew stronger over time.
- In the beginning, we only had a small idea, but now it’s a full-fledged business.
- In the beginning, the novel was difficult to get into, but it got better as it went along.
- In the beginning, I was unsure of my decision, but eventually, it felt right.
Why It Works:
This phrase emphasizes the very start of something, and it’s useful for creating a narrative flow, especially when discussing growth or change over time.
6. First Off
Explanation:
“First off” is a casual and conversational way to introduce the beginning of something. It’s great for making your tone sound friendly and down-to-earth.
Usage Examples:
- First off, thank you all for being here today.
- First off, we need to talk about our goals for this week.
- First off, I had no idea what I was doing, but I gave it a shot.
- First off, let’s cover the basics before diving deeper.
- First off, she impressed the panel with her confidence.
Why It Works:
This phrase instantly sets a welcoming tone. It’s especially effective in informal communication, presentations, or storytelling when you want to keep things engaging but still focused.
7. For Starters
Explanation:
“For starters” suggests you’re beginning with something foundational or simple before progressing to more complex ideas. It helps engage the reader by offering a friendly lead-in.
Usage Examples:
- For starters, we’ll need a solid plan.
- For starters, he brought a fresh attitude to the team.
- For starters, the interface needs to be more user-friendly.
- For starters, she’s the most experienced candidate we’ve seen.
- For starters, let’s outline the key points of our discussion.
Why It Works:
“For starters” sets a light, approachable tone while suggesting that more is to come. It’s perfect for when you want to guide someone through a process or explanation without overwhelming them.
8. In the First Place
Explanation:
This phrase emphasizes the original or primary reason for something. It’s often used to clarify the root cause or start of an argument or idea.
Usage Examples:
- Why did we even in the first place decide to do it this way?
- The problem in the first place was poor communication.
- In the first place, we agreed to stick to the plan.
- She didn’t even in the first place know what she was getting into.
- In the first place, the proposal seemed too risky, but it turned out fine.
Why It Works:
“In the first place” adds clarity and helps to trace things back to their original moment, which is key when explaining processes or decisions. It’s a great way to draw attention to the root of an issue.
9. At the Outset
Explanation:
“At the outset” is more formal and can be used in professional or academic contexts. It’s great for writing that demands precision, and it suggests the very beginning of something important.
Usage Examples:
- At the outset, we didn’t know how challenging the project would be.
- At the outset, they set clear goals for the team.
- At the outset, there were many doubts, but they were quickly dispelled.
- At the outset, the event was meant to be simple, but it quickly grew into something spectacular.
- At the outset, we decided to focus on quality over speed.
Why It Works:
“At the outset” adds an air of professionalism and authority to your writing. It’s perfect when you want to sound authoritative and emphasize the very first moments of an important process.
10. To Begin With
Explanation:
This phrase works similarly to “at the start” but has a slightly softer, more conversational tone. It’s excellent for both casual and formal contexts where you need to introduce an idea.
Usage Examples:
- To begin with, I would like to thank everyone for their support.
- To begin with, we need to gather all the facts.
- To begin with, I wasn’t sure it would work, but I’m glad we tried it.
- To begin with, let’s review the basics of the theory.
- To begin with, he made sure to introduce himself properly to the group.
Why It Works:
This phrase feels natural and easy to use, making it approachable while still conveying that you’re starting something. It’s ideal for a casual introduction to a topic or discussion.
11. In the Early Stages
Explanation:
“In the early stages” helps focus on the initial phase of a project, event, or idea. It’s useful when you want to convey that something is in its infancy, with potential for growth.
Usage Examples:
- In the early stages, we faced many challenges, but we overcame them together.
- The company is in the early stages of development, so we don’t have all the answers yet.
- In the early stages, the team was unsure of their roles.
- In the early stages, it wasn’t clear who the key players would be.
- In the early stages, the design was rough, but we kept refining it.
Why It Works:
“In the early stages” communicates that you’re in the initial phase of something with room for progress and change. It’s great for professional or creative contexts where things evolve over time.
Read More: Other ways to say “Have Fun”
12. From the Get-Go
Explanation:
“From the get-go” is a casual, idiomatic phrase that means “right from the start.” It’s a fun, conversational way to show that something began in a specific way without any delay.
Usage Examples:
- From the get-go, they were determined to make it a success.
- We knew from the get-go that this project would require teamwork.
- From the get-go, the plan seemed flawless, and we were confident in it.
- From the get-go, she made it clear that she would be taking charge.
- The two companies had from the get-go agreed to collaborate on new projects.
Why It Works:
“From the get-go” is informal, energetic, and adds personality to your writing. It’s perfect for a more relaxed style of communication, where you want to engage the reader with ease.
13. To Kick Things Off
Explanation:
“To kick things off” is another informal, energetic expression used to describe the start of an event or action. It’s great for speeches, presentations, or informal writing.
Usage Examples:
- To kick things off, we’ll start with a brief introduction.
- To kick things off, let’s talk about what we accomplished last week.
- To kick things off, she shared her thoughts on the matter.
- To kick things off, we played a quick icebreaker game to get everyone talking.
- To kick things off, they introduced the key speakers of the event.
Why It Works:
This phrase adds a fun, dynamic tone to your writing or speech, making it an excellent choice for introducing something with excitement and enthusiasm.
14. On Day One
Explanation:
“On day one” emphasizes the very first day or moment something began. It’s a strong, specific way to talk about starting points — especially useful in timelines, storytelling, or professional settings.
Usage Examples:
- On day one, the team already showed strong chemistry.
- He impressed us on day one with his leadership.
- On day one, we tackled the most difficult challenge.
- On day one, the app had over 1,000 downloads.
- She was passionate on day one, and that never faded.
Why It Works:
“On day one” adds precision and energy to your storytelling. It’s memorable, specific, and feels immediate — perfect when you want to mark a strong beginning.
15. Off the Bat
Explanation:
“Off the bat” is an informal idiom that means “right away” or “from the beginning.” It’s often used when something happens quickly or unexpectedly.
Usage Examples:
- Off the bat, I knew we were going to be friends.
- Off the bat, the product showed strong sales.
- Off the bat, she had questions that no one could answer.
- We had issues off the bat, but we worked through them.
- Off the bat, it seemed too good to be true.
Why It Works:
It adds spontaneity and personality to your speech. Perfect for conversational writing, this phrase helps your words sound natural and relatable.
16. The Moment It Began
Explanation:
This phrase zooms in on the exact point of origin, perfect for emotional or dramatic storytelling.
Usage Examples:
- From the moment it began, we knew this was special.
- The moment it began, everything changed.
- The moment it began, I felt completely alive.
- The moment it began, he took charge like a pro.
- The moment it began, the audience was hooked.
Why It Works:
It adds a narrative tone that’s ideal for storytelling, giving weight to your message and engaging the reader emotionally.
17. When It All Started
Explanation:
This phrase feels reflective and is often used in stories or casual speech to revisit how something important began.
Usage Examples:
- When it all started, we had no idea how far we’d go.
- I still remember when it all started — the excitement was unreal.
- When it all started, we were just experimenting.
- He’s been passionate since when it all started.
- It felt overwhelming when it all started, but now it feels natural.
Why It Works:
This phrase adds a personal, reflective quality, perfect for writing that aims to connect emotionally and provide a sense of growth or progress.
18. To Set Things in Motion
Explanation:
A powerful, action-driven phrase that emphasizes initiating a process or series of events — ideal for persuasive or motivational content.
Usage Examples:
- She made a bold choice to set things in motion.
- His first step set things in motion for the whole campaign.
- To set things in motion, we outlined our core goals.
- That single decision was enough to set things in motion.
- They took action to set things in motion, and everything followed from there.
Why It Works:
It suggests intentionality and momentum, helping the reader visualize the beginning of real change or impact — perfect for inspirational or leadership content.
19. On the Threshold
Explanation:
This poetic phrase means being right at the beginning of something new and significant. It carries a sense of potential and transformation.
Usage Examples:
- We were on the threshold of a major breakthrough.
- On the threshold of adulthood, she felt both nervous and excited.
- The company stood on the threshold of expansion.
- On the threshold, everything felt fresh and unknown.
- They were on the threshold of something life-changing.
Why It Works:
It brings a metaphorical richness to your writing, perfect for emotionally charged, thoughtful, or visionary language.
20. From Square One
Explanation:
“From square one” means starting over or beginning from the very beginning with no prior progress.
Usage Examples:
- We had to go from square one and rebuild the entire strategy.
- From square one, she approached the project with patience.
- The plan failed, so we started from square one.
- From square one, we decided to take a different path.
- Building trust again meant starting from square one.
Why It Works:
It’s straightforward, relatable, and speaks to perseverance, making it ideal for stories about rebuilding or fresh starts.
Other Ways to Say “On the Other Hand”
21. Breaking Ground
Explanation:
Originally from construction, “breaking ground” now also means starting a big or innovative project.
Usage Examples:
- We’re breaking ground on our biggest initiative yet.
- Breaking ground, they aimed to change how people think about design.
- He was breaking ground with new research in the field.
- Breaking ground, we challenged every norm.
- She began the movement by breaking ground in her community.
Why It Works:
It gives a sense of bold action and innovation — ideal when you want to highlight exciting beginnings.
22. Opening Move
Explanation:
A term often borrowed from chess, this phrase highlights the very first step in a strategy or plan.
Usage Examples:
- His opening move surprised everyone.
- The merger was just the opening move in a much larger plan.
- Her opening move was simple but strategic.
- That email was my opening move in reconnecting.
- Every great campaign starts with a strong opening move.
Why It Works:
This phrase adds strategic depth and makes your writing feel intentional and smart — perfect for business, marketing, or planning content.
23. To Begin Anew
Explanation:
This elegant phrase is all about fresh starts, and it’s great when writing about change, personal growth, or second chances.
Usage Examples:
- After the setback, we decided to begin anew.
- She moved to a new city to begin anew.
- He left his job to begin anew in a more fulfilling field.
- Sometimes, the best option is to begin anew with a clean slate.
- They rebuilt their lives to begin anew after the disaster.
Why It Works:
It offers an emotional and hopeful tone, ideal for writing that focuses on reinvention and resilience.
24. Maiden Voyage
Explanation:
A poetic phrase that originally referred to a ship’s first journey, now widely used for any new experience or venture.
Usage Examples:
- The product’s maiden voyage exceeded all expectations.
- Her speech at the conference was a maiden voyage into public speaking.
- Our startup’s maiden voyage was a rocky but rewarding one.
- The app’s maiden voyage saw unexpected success.
- That class marked my maiden voyage into teaching.
Why It Works:
It’s evocative and elegant, great for storytelling or highlighting bold, first-time experiences.
25. Opening Chapter
Explanation:
This phrase gives a narrative feel to your writing and is perfect for transitions, introductions, or beginnings with a sense of continuity.
Usage Examples:
- College marked the opening chapter of her adult life.
- This marks the opening chapter in our company’s next evolution.
- The book’s opening chapter drew me in right away.
- We’re now entering the opening chapter of our new journey.
- The move abroad was the opening chapter in their shared adventure.
Why It Works:
It paints a visual and emotional picture, ideal for connecting with your audience in a reflective, human way.
Conclusion
Tired of repeating the same old phrase? These 25 fresh, compelling alternatives to “other ways to say for the first time” will bring variety, clarity, and style to your language. Whether you’re writing an email, storytelling, giving a speech, or creating content your words now have the power to grab attention and leave a lasting impression.
So next time you want to describe something happening for the very first time, come back to this list and choose a synonym that adds flair, emotion, or precision. Trust me, your vocabulary and your audience will thank you.
I’m Leo Knox, the wordplay wizard behind WordsTwists.com where I turn everyday meanings into funny, clever, and creative twists. If you’re tired of saying things the boring way, I’ve got a better (and funnier) one for you!
