used to introduce the first of a list of points you want to make in a speech or piece of writing There are two reasons for this decision: firstly… Which Word?first (of all) / firstly / at first
- First (of all) and firstly are used to introduce a series of facts, reasons, opinions, etc:The brochure is divided into two sections, dealing first of all/firstly with basic courses and second/secondly with advanced ones.First (of all) is more common than firstly.
- At first is used to talk about the situation at the beginning of a period of time, especially when you are comparing it with a different situation at a later period:Maggie had seen him nearly every day at first. Now she saw him much less often.
- This study has the following aims:first, to investigate how international students in America use humor;second, to examine how jokes can help to establish social relationships; and, third, to explore the role that humor plays in helping overseas students adjust to life in the U.S.
- Let us begin by identifying some of the popular joke genres in the U.S.
- Next, let us turn to/Next, let us consider the question of gender differences in the use of humor.
- Finally/Lastly, let us briefly examine the role of humor in defining a nation's culture.
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