to begin with

Definitions

Used to introduce the first and most important reason for something.

At the start or in the initial stages of a process or situation.

Examples

To begin with, we should establish a clear set of goals for the project.

The hotel was overpriced and, to begin with, the room was not even clean.

Synonyms

initially first of all to start with in the first place at the outset for starters

Antonyms

finally in the end ultimately lastly to conclude at the finish