Translation guide
How to express that something was true at the beginning or in its original state, or that something was done first/initially.
Describing a situation or state that was true at the beginning but later changed.
The most common and natural way to say 'originally' in the sense of 'from the start' or 'by nature'. Often used when contrasting with the current situation.
Originally, I intended to become a teacher.
This town was originally a small village.
Emphasizes the inherent or proper nature of something. Often used for rules, functions, or essential qualities.
We must not forget the original purpose.
Originally, we should have arrived by now.
Formal, often used in business or official contexts to refer to the initial stage or plan.
The original plan was changed.
Originally, there were many opposing opinions.
Emphasizing that something was the case from the very start, often implying it should have been obvious or that the current situation is contradictory.
Describing an innate characteristic or quality that something has from the start.
Specifically for innate human traits or abilities. 'By birth' or 'naturally'.
He was originally (born with) a disability in his legs.
Similar to 本来, but often used for inherent characteristics of things or people. Slightly formal.
Indicating a person's hometown or the place where something originated.
元々 (もともと) is the most versatile and common for 'originally' in everyday speech. 本来 (ほんらい) emphasizes the true or proper nature, often used for principles or intended functions. 当初 (とうしょ) is formal and used mainly for plans, schedules, or situations at the initial stage, often in business contexts.
I originally planned to go, but I decided not to.
It's different from the original (intended) way of using it.
It's behind the original schedule.
In English, 'originally' is often used as a discourse marker to introduce a contrast or background. In Japanese, it's often more natural to use a structure like 〜だったが、今は〜 or simply state the past situation without an adverb. Overusing 元々 can sound unnatural.
Originally a teacher, he is now a writer. (More natural than 元々教師だったが...)
That was originally an impossible story (it was impossible from the start).
元々そういう約束じゃなかった？
Wasn't that the original agreement?
She has innate talent.
彼は元来優しい性格だ。
He is originally (by nature) a kind person.