firstsecondly

Firstsecondly is a neologism in English that merges the functions of first and secondly. It is used as a discourse marker to introduce the initial point in a two-part sequence while signaling that a subsequent point will follow.

Origin and usage patterns have emerged in informal writing, online forums, and instructional materials. The term is formed by concatenating the adverbs first and secondly, and it may appear without a hyphen or with a hyphen (first-secondly) in different texts. Its exact origin is not documented, but it reflects a broader tendency to compress traditional list markers in casual communication. In practice, firstsecondly functions as a shorthand for stating an initial argument or step with an implicit expectation of a second item.

Reception varies: many editors and style guides treat it as informal or awkward and prefer separate phrases such as “first” or “firstly” followed by a distinct “secondly” or “second.” Proponents argue that it can save space and reduce repetition in brief lists, especially in online content. In formal writing, the use of firstsecondly is generally discouraged, with alternatives chosen for clarity and rhythm.

Examples illustrate typical usage. “Firstsecondly, the method minimizes waste; secondly, it improves processing speed.” Another instance: “Firstsecondly, we should address cost concerns, and secondly, we must ensure reliability.” Because the term is not standardized, readers may encounter it in varying styles, and its acceptance depends on the publication’s conventions.

See also: firstly, secondly, list markers, discourse markers.