INITIALLY Synonyms: 10 Similar and Opposite Words

initially

adverb

i-ˈni-sh(ə-)lē

Definition of initially next

as in originally

in the beginning we initially intended to rebuild our hurricane-damaged home from the ground up

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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Recent Examples of initially The markings were initially identified as prehistoric art in 1912 by professor William Sollas and Henri Breuil but were later dismissed as a natural phenomenon caused by mineral deposits seeping through the rock, the study said. —

Elmira Aliieva, NBC news, 1 June 2026 She was initially charged with misdemeanor breaking or entering, resisting arrest and assault on a government official. —

Meredith Deliso, ABC News, 1 June 2026 The band initially played shows around campus, performing covers and a handful of original songs. —

Katie Simons, Los Angeles Times, 1 June 2026 The case was initially sealed, but the county later sought to make the proceedings public, a request joined by several media organizations. —

Kaelan Deese, The Washington Examiner, 1 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for initially

Recent Examples of Synonyms for initially

originally

Adverb

In this novel, originally published in 1967, the sense of feverish pursuit and longing starts on page one and does not let up.

— The Know, Denver Post, 31 May 2026
Friday's event was originally intended to celebrate the bill's passage through the legislature.

— Jamie Leary, CBS News, 31 May 2026