Translation guide
Ways to introduce the first point or step in English, from formal presentations to casual conversation.
first of all (general)
first of all (simple)
The speaker wants to present the first of several points, reasons, or steps.
A clear and common way to say 'first of all' when listing points. Suitable for both speech and writing.
First of all, I'd like to talk about environmental issues.
A simpler, very common word meaning 'first' or 'to begin with'. Often used in casual and semi-formal contexts.
Means 'first' or 'at the beginning'. Used when describing the first step in a process or the first thing to do.
Emphasizes that something is the most important thing to do or consider first. 'Above all else, first...'
The speaker is opening a formal talk or meeting and wants to begin with an introductory remark.
The speaker wants to stress that something must be done or considered before anything else.
Both mean 'first', but まず is more about the order of actions or points in a discussion, while 最初に emphasizes the very beginning of a time sequence or process. まず is more common in listing reasons or steps.
First of all, I'll give three reasons.
First of all, please enter the conference room.
一番目 (いちばんめ) means 'the first one' in a numbered list, not 'first of all' as a discourse marker. Using it to start a speech sounds unnatural.
First of all, I'll introduce myself. (unnatural)
First of all, I want to thank everyone.
First of all, let's check the schedule.
First of all, let me introduce myself.
First of all, please check the ingredients.
First of all, ensure safety above everything else.
First of all, I'll explain today's agenda.
First of all, go see a doctor.