phrase · neutral
to begin with
UK/tə bɪˈɡɪn wɪð/US/tə bɪˈɡɪn wɪθ/be·GIN
used to introduce the first point or reason in a sequence
Examples
“To begin with, the government should invest more in early education.”
“To begin with, we must collect reliable data before making any decision.”
“To begin with, I want to thank everyone for coming today.”
Band 8 sentence
“To begin with, a substantial improvement in teacher training would raise educational outcomes across disadvantaged regions.”
Collocations
- To begin with, + clause
- To begin with the fact that ...
Word family
Common mistakes
At begin with, we should discuss the costs.→To begin with, we should discuss the costs.
Begin with, the main problem is funding.→To begin with, the main problem is funding.
Say it for a higher band
5first→6first of all→7+to begin with
Synonyms
first of all
Easily confused
firstly
“Firstly, we must consider whether the strategy is feasible.”
Related words
Learn this word with the rest of its set, and get reminded at the right time.
In Adding ideas
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