first off

adverb

Definition of first offnext
as in first

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Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for first off
  1. first
  2. now
  3. early
  4. before long
Adverb
  • The phrase first surfaced in early 2024 and has grown in popularity since, according to Know Your Meme.
    — Mitchell McCluskey, CNN Money, 24 Aug. 2026
  • Rest first, research quietly, and return to the plan when your yes feels clear.
    — Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 24 Aug. 2026
Definition of first
Adverb
  • Her light ripples and will forever ripple, and will shine even brighter now.
    — Chris Gardner, HollywoodReporter, 27 Aug. 2026
  • The scientists now plan to collaborate with cement industry stakeholders to determine if the technology can be scaled for mass production.
    — Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 27 Aug. 2026
Definition of now
Adverb
  • Zelenskyy said that earlier this year the Defense Ministry had told him that SpaceX had agreed to allow Ukraine to use Starlink over Russian territory to carry out deep strike operations, subject to political approval.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 23 Aug. 2026
  • In addition, a law creating new asylum eligibility requirements, including new time limits for applying, went into effect earlier this year.
    — Catherine E. Shoichet, CNN Money, 23 Aug. 2026
Definition of early
Adverb
  • The average price of a new car could, before long, jump to $60,000 and beyond.
    — Matteo Wong, The Atlantic, 19 Aug. 2026
  • However, the bats that the Padres drafted last month have already begun to make their professional debuts in full-season ball and second-round shortstop Elliot Lascelles could join the Storm before long.
    — Jeff Sanders, San Diego Union-Tribune, 15 Aug. 2026
Definition of before long
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Browse Nearby Words

first names
first off
first-rate
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Cite this Entry

“First off.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/first%20off. Accessed 28 Aug. 2026.

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