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First vs. Firstly: When to Use Each One
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Perhaps you have seen the words first and firstly in sentences and wondered which one is correct—or if firstly is even a real word. If so, today's post can help.
First Things Firstly
As a starting point, let's note that both first and firstly are technically correct in a grammatical sense. That means you can use either one without being wrong. Either word falls under the category of "enumeration," which involves using numbered lists to make a point or explanation. If you were showing a friend how to bake a cake and said something such as "first, you pour in the flour, and second, you add the eggs," you would be using enumeration.
With that understood, you could use firstly instead of first. As we mentioned, it is grammatically correct.
We do however recommend that you don't make a habit of it. Here are some good reasons why:
Firstly is a longer word with an extra syllable. Shorter is often better in writing, speaking, and reading.
Firstly is an uncommon word. That's not necessarily a bad thing, but in this case, using it could make it seem as if you are trying to hide a point or "dress up" an otherwise lacking idea. In other words, it's distracting.
Because firstly isn't common in usage, some teachers, professors, and employers may consider it to be incorrect even when it isn't. So, it could hurt your grades or your ability to communicate.
Firstly is more awkward to say out loud than first is. Whether it's verbal or written, good communication calls on us to be as clear and simple as possible.
To be consistent, we would need to follow firstly with secondly, thirdly, fourthly, and so on. That can get cumbersome. Such writing or speaking might not be grammatically wrong, but it isn't always going to help us win a reader's or listener's attention. |
The First and Last Line on Firstly
If you wish to continue writing and saying firstly, you won't be defying grammatical principles. But don't be surprised if other people act as if you are. It's a word most native English speakers don't use, and some might assume it implies a lesser understanding of the language.
Unless you have a specific reason to use firstly, secondly, thirdly, and so on, it's better to stick with the shorter, simpler, and more commonly accepted alternatives first, second, and third.
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