for a start | to start with
INFORMAL
This page is about the conversational phrase for a start | to start with
Meaning
You can use this to introduce the first of several reasons, points, opinions, etc.
For example
- "Why do you want the job?"
"Well, to start with, the wages are good. And it's also close to where I live." - "It's not fair, Dad. Why can't I go?"
"For a start, it's a school night. And then there's the party - they're all much older than you."
"Firstly" has the same meaning, but is used in formal written and spoken English.
Contributor: Matt Errey