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Definitions

first off

ADVERB
before anything else
Synonyms
WEAK
first of all first thing firstly foremost immediately in the first place primo up front

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Play “ready golf”: Stop worrying about who has the honor to hit first off the tee.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

"We need to tackle that pervasive misogyny in society first off, so we don't reach that stage in the first place."

From BBC • Jun. 30, 2025

Well, I would like to say first off, that science is and should be for absolutely everyone, regardless of your political affiliation.

From Salon • Oct. 8, 2024

“I need to first off try to be out there for training camp. Get as many reps as I can with the guys,” he said.

From Seattle Times • May 7, 2024

I scored first off a sweet fake-loop pass from Joey, because as soon as I had that ball in my hands I was gone.

From "Winger" by Andrew Smith