Other ways to say firstly secondly thirdly — this phrase might look simple, but it’s one of the most searched expressions people want to rephrase for clearer, smoother, and more professional writing.
If you’ve ever felt stuck repeating the same transition words over and over again, you’re not alone. That’s exactly why learning other ways to say firstly secondly thirdly can instantly level up your communication, whether you’re writing emails, essays, reports, or online content.
These alternatives help you structure ideas better, avoid repetition, and express your thoughts with more confidence.
All Other Ways to Say “Firstly, Secondly, Thirdly”
To begin with, In the beginning, First of all, Before anything else, Initially, To start, To kick off, Primarily, At the outset, As a first point, Moving on, Next, Following that, Subsequently, In addition, Moreover, Additionally, Then, Afterward, Later on, To continue, To conclude, Lastly, Finally, In summary
To Begin With
Definition: A transitional phrase used to introduce the first idea logically.
This phrase adds a smooth and formal tone to writing while keeping your message clear. It is often used in essays and structured writing.
Examples:
• To begin with, we must understand the core problem.
• To begin with, the project needs proper planning.
• To begin with, let’s discuss the main objective.
In the Beginning
Definition: Used to introduce the earliest or initial point of discussion.
It works well for storytelling, timelines, or step-by-step explanations.
Examples:
• In the beginning, everything seemed simple.
• In the beginning, the company had only five employees.
• In the beginning, we focused on basic strategies.
First of All
Definition: A common phrase to introduce the first important point.
It helps emphasize priority and clarity in structured content.
Examples:
• First of all, thank you for your support.
• First of all, we need to set a clear goal.
• First of all, understand the user’s needs.
Before Anything Else
Definition: A phrase emphasizing the most essential first step.
Great for persuasive writing or instructional content.
Examples:
• Before anything else, secure your data.
• Before anything else, make a checklist.
• Before anything else, understand the requirements.
Initially
Definition: A short, formal word meaning “at first.”
Perfect for professional or academic writing.
Examples:
• Initially, the plan looked promising.
• Initially, we underestimated the workload.
• Initially, customers preferred manual options.
To Start
Definition: A simple and natural phrase introducing the first point.
Useful for casual, business, or creative writing.
Examples:
• To start, we need a clear strategy.
• To start, gather the necessary materials.
• To start, analyze the problem.
To Kick Off
Definition: A lively phrase meaning “to begin.”
Commonly used in speeches, presentations, and conversational writing.
Examples:
• To kick off, let’s review last year’s progress.
• To kick off, we launched a small pilot test.
• To kick off, here’s the main topic.
Primarily
Definition: A transition word used to present the main point first.
Useful for showing importance or priority.
Examples:
• Primarily, we aim to improve customer experience.
• Primarily, this method boosts efficiency.
• Primarily, the issue lies in poor planning.
At the Outset
Definition: A formal phrase meaning “from the beginning.”
Ideal for reports, emails, or academic writing.
Examples:
• At the outset, we set clear expectations.
• At the outset, you must understand the budget.
• At the outset, the results looked positive.
As a First Point
Definition: Used to highlight the initial idea in a list or explanation.
It improves structure and readability in writing.
Examples:
• As a first point, let’s talk about security.
• As a first point, customer trust matters most.
• As a first point, we should review the data.
Moving On
Definition: A phrase to shift from one idea to the next smoothly.
Great for step-by-step writing or presentations.
Examples:
• Moving on, let’s discuss the second strategy.
• Moving on, we can explore new features.
• Moving on, we’ll analyze the data.
Next
Definition: A simple transition showing the following step in a sequence.
Perfect for instructions, tutorials, or structured arguments.
Examples:
• Next, install the application.
• Next, we’ll compare both methods.
• Next, consider improving your workflow.
Following That
Definition: Shows a natural progression between ideas.
Useful in storytelling or multi-step explanations.
Examples:
• Following that, the team revised the plan.
• Following that, sales began to increase.
• Following that, we tested the prototype.
Subsequently
Definition: A formal word meaning “after something happened.”
Ideal for reports and chronological explanations.
Examples:
• Subsequently, the results improved.
• Subsequently, we expanded operations.
• Subsequently, new guidelines were added.
In Addition
Definition: A phrase adding extra information or another point.
Often used in professional and academic writing.
Examples:
• In addition, we increased our budget.
• In addition, more tools were introduced.
• In addition, users reported better performance.
Moreover
Definition: A stronger way to add information after a previous point.
It enhances authority and clarity in writing.
Examples:
• Moreover, this method saves time.
• Moreover, customers prefer this solution.
• Moreover, it improves workflow efficiency.
Additionally
Definition: A transition indicating extra or supporting ideas.
Helps build strong, logical flow.
Examples:
• Additionally, we improved our service quality.
• Additionally, new features were added.
• Additionally, this reduces overall cost.
Then
Definition: A simple transition showing sequence or order.
Useful in instructions or chronological writing.
Examples:
• Then, plug in the device.
• Then, analyze the reports.
• Then, move to the final step.
Afterward
Definition: Means “after the first action or step.”
Used to maintain smooth chronological flow.
Examples:
• Afterward, we reviewed the results.
• Afterward, the system performed better.
• Afterward, users reported improvements.
Later On
Definition: A casual phrase showing something that happened later.
Good for stories, processes, or tutorials.
Examples:
• Later on, we updated the software.
• Later on, new employees joined.
• Later on, the plan changed.
To Continue
Definition: A phrase that transitions to the next point smoothly.
Often used for clarity in structured explanations.
Examples:
• To continue, let’s evaluate the second step.
• To continue, we must look at the results.
• To continue, here’s the supporting data.
To Conclude
Definition: Introduces the last portion of your points.
Useful for wrapping up lists, arguments, or explanations.
Examples:
• To conclude, the method is highly effective.
• To conclude, our goals were achieved.
• To conclude, here are the final points.
Lastly
Definition: A transition used before the final item in a sequence.
Great for step-by-step lists or summaries.
Examples:
• Lastly, test your configuration.
• Lastly, thank the contributors.
• Lastly, complete the final review.
Finally
Definition: A common word signaling the final step or idea.
Strong for closing instructions or multi-point writing.
Examples:
• Finally, submit your application.
• Finally, we completed the project.
• Finally, let’s wrap up the discussion.
In Summary
Definition: Used to introduce a final brief overview.
Perfect for conclusions or recaps.
Examples:
• In summary, our goals were met.
• In summary, the strategy worked well.
• In summary, here are the main findings.
FAQs
Q1. Why should I avoid using “firstly, secondly, thirdly” repeatedly?
Using varied transitions improves readability and flow, giving your writing a more natural style.
Q2. Are these alternatives suitable for academic writing?
Yes. Many are formal and ideal for essays, reports, and research papers.
Q3. Can these transitions improve SEO content?
Absolutely. Smooth readability helps meet Google’s EEAT and user-experience standards.
Q4. What is the best phrase for starting an argument?
“To begin with” or “First of all” are strong, clear choices.
Q5. Which transitions work best in step-by-step guides?
“Next,” “Then,” and “Afterward” are perfect for instructions.
Q6. Can I mix formal and informal transitions?
Yes, depending on tone — but keep consistency in professional writing.
Conclusion
Choosing other ways to say firstly secondly thirdly instantly strengthens your writing, improves clarity, and enhances SEO performance.
These alternatives help organize ideas, maintain flow, and make your content more engaging for readers and Google alike.
