Translation guide
Expresses the idea of the initial action, event, or item in a sequence, or the most important priority. Japanese uses various expressions depending on context.
To say that something happens before anything else, or to describe the initial step.
Common adverb meaning 'first', 'at first', 'to begin with'. Used for the first action in a sequence.
最初に手を洗ってください。
First, please wash your hands.
What do you do first?
Very common adverb meaning 'first of all', 'to start with'. Often used in instructions or when listing steps.
まず、材料を準備します。
First, prepare the ingredients.
Emphasizes 'the very first thing', stronger than 最初に.
一番初めに言ったことを覚えていますか。
Do you remember the very first thing I said?
To refer to the first thing among several items, such as in a ranking or enumeration.
Literally 'the first thing'. Used when the thing is understood from context.
最初のものが一番好きです。
I like the first thing the most.
Means 'the first one' when counting items. Casual and common.
一つ目は何ですか。
What is the first thing?
To express that something is the top priority or the first thing to consider.
Means 'first of all', 'above all else'. Emphasizes priority.
何よりもまず、安全を確保してください。
First thing, ensure safety.
Formal/literary expression for 'firstly', 'primarily'.
第一に、健康が大切です。
First thing, health is important.
To describe doing something immediately after waking up.
Common phrase meaning 'first thing in the morning'.
朝一番にコーヒーを飲みます。
I drink coffee first thing in the morning.
Literally 'right after waking up'. More casual.
起きてすぐにメールをチェックする。
I check email first thing after waking up.
The English phrase 'first thing' is often not translated literally. Instead, use adverbs like 最初に or まず, or specific phrases like 朝一番に depending on context.