initially

Initially is an adverb that refers to the beginning of a period, process, or sequence. It marks the starting point before subsequent changes or developments and is often used to introduce a contrast between what happened at the outset and what happened later.

Etymology and form: Initially is formed from the adjective initial, which derives from Latin initialis, from initium meaning “a beginning.” The suffix -ly converts the adjective into an adverb, signaling timing or sequence rather than quality.

Usage and nuance: In writing and speech, initially signals the early phase of a situation. It is commonly followed by a description of how things evolved, changed, or diverged over time. It is useful for outlining steps, phases, or conditional narratives, and it often occurs at the start of a clause or sentence. For example: “Initially, the plan seemed straightforward,” or “The device was stable initially, but failures emerged later.”

Placement and alternatives: Initially can be placed at the beginning of a sentence or after the subject. Alternatives with similar meaning include at first, in the beginning, and early on. While closely related to these phrases, initially emphasizes the temporal start and subsequent change rather than merely the location or origin.

Context: The term is common in academic, journalistic, and technical writing for describing sequences, experiments, projects, or processes. It is typically neutral in tone and does not itself imply success or failure, though it often introduces later developments that may contrast with the early impression.