zunächst

Zunächst is a German adverb meaning “at first,” “initially,” or “first of all.” It signals the starting point in a sequence of actions, events, or arguments and is used to introduce the first step, element, or consideration in a discussion, plan, or narrative.

In use, zunächst is most often placed at the beginning of a clause or after a leading phrase such as “Zunächst …” or “Zunächst einmal ….” It can carry a formal or deliberate tone and is common in written language as well as careful speech. In informal contexts, speakers may opt for synonyms like zuerst or erst mal, which can feel more colloquial.

Notes on form and relations: zunächst is a standalone adverb rather than a prefix. A frequent emphatic form is zunächst einmal, which adds emphasis when starting a statement. Related terms include zuerst (more strictly ordinal “first” in time), anfänglich (at the beginning), and zu Beginn (at the outset). While all convey timing, zunächst often stresses the initial stage within a sequence and can imply that later steps will follow.

Examples:

Zunächst sollten wir die Anforderungen klären.

Zunächst möchte ich mich bei allen bedanken.

Zunächst einmal gilt es, die Grundsätze zu verstehen, bevor wir weiterarbeiten.