Gransnet forums

Pedants' corner

Page 1 of 1
Flip | Customise

First of all

(2 Posts)
Add comment | Report
Greenfinch Mon 19-Sep-16 08:20:51

When teaching foreign students first of all was a useful phrase for developing an argument. They naturally followed this with second of all and I explained that we would say secondly,thirdly etc.I have increasingly heard second of all being used and this morning I heard third of all from a BBC interviewer. Where has this come from ?

Add comment | Report
MaizieD Mon 19-Sep-16 11:38:17

Haven't a clue where it's come from but shouldn't it be 'Firstly'if it's going to be followed by 'secondly' etc.? I'd say that 'first of all' is more likely to be followed by 'then'.

I am willing to be corrected if there is sound evidence for 'First of all'in the context you've used.

Page 1 of 1
Flip | Customise