Words / A2

uh-RIJ-uh-n-uh-lee/əˈrɪdʒənəli/

Originally means in the beginning, before changes: originally from, originally planned, originally a factory. Original is the adjective. First is a simpler cousin. Now or currently is the contrast. Do not write originally when you mean origin (the noun), or regionally.

Meaning

In the beginning; before later changes.

Examples

• “The café was originally a bookshop.”
• “He is originally from Belfast but works in Leeds.”
• “The meeting was originally on Monday, then they moved it.”

Good to know

originally from / originally planned. Adjective: original. Contrast: now. Mix-up: origin (noun).

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