adverb
originally
At the beginning, before later changes.
Our library occupies a building originally built as a school.
Etymology
Original concerns the origin or first state of something. The adverb locates a fact at that beginning, before subsequent change.
More examples
- We originally planned to drive, but we took the train instead.
- The recipe originally called for butter rather than oil.
- Originally, the club had just six members.
Forms
original adjective — Existing at the beginning, before changes.
Similar words
- initially
- Emphasizes the first stage of a process or situation.
- formerly
- Means at an earlier time, not necessarily the beginning.