Many English learners get confused between “first” and “firstly”. Both words look similar, and both are used when we start sentences or list points.
But the problem is simple: people often don’t know which one is correct in writing, speaking, or exams.
This confusion is very common in English Grammar because both words appear in schools, IELTS writing, emails, and online content.
Some teachers say “firstly is correct,” while others prefer “first.” This creates uncertainty for learners.
People search this keyword because they want a quick, clear answer:
- Is “first” correct or “firstly”?
- Which one sounds natural?
- Which one should be used in exams and formal writing?
This article solves that confusion in a simple way. You will learn the exact difference, origin, usage rules, mistakes, and real examples. By the end, you will know exactly which word to use in any situation without hesitation.
Quick Answer
In modern English, both words are correct, but they are used differently.
- First = more natural, simple, and widely used
- Firstly = more formal and less common today
Examples:
- First, we will eat.
- Firstly, we need to understand the topic.
👉 In most cases, “first” is preferred in modern writing.
The Origin of First or Firstly
The word “first” comes from Old English fyrst, meaning “before all others.”
“Firstly” was later created by adding “-ly” to make it sound like an adverb, similar to:
- secondly
- thirdly
In Linguistics, this is called adverb formation.
Over time, English speakers started preferring simpler forms like “first” instead of “firstly.”
British English vs American English Spelling
Both British and American English accept both words, but usage style is different.
| Feature | British English | American English |
|---|---|---|
| Preferred word | Firstly (formal writing) | First (more common) |
| Everyday use | Mixed | Mostly “first” |
| Style | Structured lists | Simple sentences |
| Modern trend | Less strict | Very simple usage |
In English Language, both styles are correct, but simplicity is now preferred globally.
Which Spelling Should You Use?
✔ Use “First” if:
- You are writing emails
- You are speaking
- You are writing blogs or modern content
- You want natural English
✔ Use “Firstly” if:
- You are writing formal essays
- You are using structured academic lists
- Your teacher requires it
👉 Global rule: “First” is safer in almost all situations.
Common Mistakes with First or Firstly
Using both together:
- Wrong: Firstly, first we go home
- Correct: First, we go home
Overusing “firstly”:
- Wrong: Firstly, secondly, thirdly (always)
- Better: First, second, third
Mixing informal and formal style:
- Wrong: Firstly I go, then I eat
- Correct: First, I go, then I eat
First or Firstly in Everyday Examples
📧 Email:
- First, please review the document.
📰 News Writing:
- First, the government announced the plan.
💬 Social Media:
- First I woke up, then I drank tea.
📚 Academic Writing:
- Firstly, we define the problem.
First or Firstly – Google Trends & Usage Data
Search trends show:
- “first” is searched and used more globally
- “firstly” is mostly used in school writing and formal exams
Countries like the US, Canada, and Australia prefer “first” in daily communication, while “firstly” appears more in academic contexts.
Overall trend:
👉 “First” is more popular and growing in modern usage
👉 “Firstly” is slowly decreasing in everyday English
Comparison Table: First vs Firstly
| Feature | First | Firstly |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Adverb | Adverb |
| Usage | Common | Less common |
| Tone | Natural | Formal |
| Modern English | Preferred | Optional |
| Example | First, we start | Firstly, we start |
FAQs
1. Is “first” correct grammar?
Yes, “first” is completely correct and widely used in modern English.
2. Is “firstly” wrong?
No, it is not wrong, but it is less common today.
3. Which is better for IELTS writing?
Both are accepted, but “first” is preferred for clarity.
4. Can I use “firstly, secondly, thirdly”?
Yes, but modern writing prefers “first, second, third.”
5. Why do teachers teach “firstly”?
Because it helps structure lists clearly in academic writing.
6. Is “first” more natural than “firstly”?
Yes, native speakers mostly use “first.”
7. Can I mix both in one essay?
No, choose one style and stay consistent.
Conclusion
The difference between first or firstly is simple once you understand usage style. Both words are correct in English Grammar, but modern English strongly prefers “first” because it is natural, simple, and widely used.
“Firstly” is still useful in formal or academic writing, especially when listing points. However, in everyday communication, emails, blogs, and even many exams, “first” sounds cleaner and more professional.
The key takeaway is consistency. If you start with one style, continue using it throughout your writing. This makes your English clearer and more confident.
In the end, mastering this small difference improves your overall writing quality and helps you sound more natural in global English communication.
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