初はつにMeanings1adverbfor the first timeUsed when something happens or is done for the first time. Often appears in formal or written contexts, but also in everyday speech.初はつにこの地ちを訪おとずれたのは十じゅう年ねん前まえです。It was ten years ago that I first visited this place.初はつに会あったときから、彼かれには親したしみを感かんじた。From the first time I met him, I felt a sense of familiarity.