adverb

zunächst

first

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Definition & meaning

zunächst is an adverb meaning “initially,” “at first,” “first,” or “for the time being,” depending on context.

It can introduce the first step or point in a sequence: First, we’ll look at the problem.
It can describe an initial situation that may later change: At first, she was unsure.
In some contexts, it means something is true or planned for now, without ruling out a later change.

Grammar & word origin

zunächst is an invariable adverb: its form does not change. It is made up of zu (“to”) and nächst, related to nächste (“next” or “nearest”). The idea is of what comes first or nearest in a sequence.

Synonyms & antonyms

Possible synonyms include:

zuerst — “first”; emphasizes order in a sequence.
anfangs — “at first”; emphasizes an initial period or state.
vorerst — “for the time being”; emphasizes that an arrangement is temporary.
erst einmal — “for now” or “first of all”; often conversational.

Possible opposites, depending on context, include:

schließlich — “eventually” or “finally,” often contrasting an initial stage with a later outcome.
zuletzt — “last” or “in the end,” especially when describing sequence.
danach — “after that,” referring to what follows rather than what comes first.