What is originally? Pronunciation and usage in English

originally means . Learn how to pronounce and use originally through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of originally

originallyadverb

/əˈrɪdʒənəli/
Definition & pronunciation of originally

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "originally" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown of the sounds and how to put them together:

1. Core Sounds:

  • o - Like the "o" in "go" or "hot." (Short "o")
  • rig - This part is a bit tricky. It sounds like "rig" as in "rigged" (but without the 'd'). It's a clipped, almost forced sound.
  • i - Like the "i" in "bit" or "bike." (Short "i")
  • nally - The “ally” part sounds like “nāl-lee.” Think of "nail" followed by "lee."

2. Putting it Together - The Breakdown:

Here's a suggested pronunciation, broken into smaller chunks:

  • o-RIG (Quickly, almost like one syllable) - The “o” and “rig” are often blended together.
  • -i-nally - Separate this part out.

3. Putting it all together (with emphasis):

The most common and natural way to say it is:

oh-RIG-uh-nāl-lee

(Think of it as: "Oh-Rigg-uh-nal-lee")

4. Tips and Considerations:

  • The "R" Sound: American English speakers often slightly reduce the "r" sound in "originally." It's not a strong, rolled "r" like in Spanish. It’s more like a quick tap of the tongue against the roof of your mouth as you transition to the next syllable.
  • Speed: The word is often spoken quickly, so you'll need to get used to blending the sounds.
  • Listen to Native Speakers: This is crucial. The best way to learn is by hearing it:
    • Google: Type "how to pronounce originally" into Google and listen to the audio examples.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/originally/ - Forvo is a website with pronunciations by native speakers from different regions.
    • YouTube: Search for videos demonstrating the pronunciation.

Resources for Practice:

  • YouGlish: https://youglish.com/ - Type in "originally" and it will show you how people actually pronounce it in real videos.

To help me tailor the explanation even further, could you tell me:

  • Are you aiming for a General American pronunciation, or a British pronunciation? (There can be slight variations.)

Usage and examples with the word originally in English

Let's break down how to use the word "originally" in English. It's a versatile word that adds nuance to your writing and speech. Here's a comprehensive guide:

1. Basic Meaning & Usage:

  • At the Beginning: “Originally” primarily means “at the time when something first began” or “in its initial form.” It points to a past origin.
  • Contrast with Present: It often highlights a difference between the original state and a current state.

2. Common Sentence Structures:

  • “Originally, [something] was…”: This is the most common structure.

    • Example: “Originally, the company was a small family business.”
    • Example: “Originally, the church was built in the 14th century.”

  • “It was originally… but now…”: This emphasizes a change over time.

    • Example: “It was originally a residential building, but now it’s an art gallery.”
    • Example: “She was originally a dancer, but now she’s a choreographer.”

  • “Originally, this idea came from…”: Tracing the source of an idea.

    • Example: “Originally, this idea came from a dream I had.”

  • “Originally, the concept was…”: Describing the initial conception of something.

    • Example: “Originally, the concept of democracy was vastly different from what we know today.”

3. Different Contexts and Nuances:

  • Historical Context: Often used in historical accounts to describe how things were in the past.

    • Example: “Originally, Roman law was based on custom and tradition.”

  • Design and Creation: When talking about the design or creation of something.

    • Example: "Originally, the design was meant to be more minimalist, but we added the decorative elements later."

  • Origin of a Name/Tradition: Explaining where a name, tradition, or term comes from.

    • Example: “The name ‘Halloween’ originally comes from the Celtic festival of Samhain.”

  • Expressing Surprise or Interest: You can use it to show surprise at something’s original state or to pique someone's interest in its history.

    • Example: "Originally, this castle was built as a fortress! It's incredible to think about."

4. Distinguishing It from Similar Words:

  • Initially: “Initially” is very similar and often interchangeable with “originally.” However, “initially” can sometimes imply a brief starting period, while "originally" tends to suggest a more fundamental or enduring origin. Example: Initially, the project faced some challenges, but we overcame them. vs. Originally, the town had a strong emphasis on agriculture.

  • Formerly: “Formerly” means “previously” or “in the past.” It doesn’t necessarily imply a complete change from the past state. Example: Formerly, the building was used as an office, but now it's a museum.

  • To begin with: This is an informal phrase that means “at the start.” (e.g., “To begin with, we need to gather the materials.”)

5. Examples in Different Types of Writing:

  • Narrative: “Originally, I planned to travel to Europe, but I decided to spend the summer hiking in the Appalachian Mountains.”
  • Descriptive: “The old farmhouse originally had a sprawling orchard surrounding it.”
  • Expository: “Originally, the United States Constitution was drafted without a bill of rights.”

Tips for Using "Originally" Effectively:

  • Be Specific: Don’t just say “originally, it was different.” Explain how it was different.
  • Connect it to the Present (Often): Using "originally" is often more impactful when you then contrast it with the present situation.
  • Don’t Overuse: Like any word, don’t use "originally" constantly. Choose it when it adds genuine clarity or interest.

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of writing are you working on (e.g., essay, story, blog post)?
  • Can you give me an example sentence where you're thinking of using the word "originally"?

Synonyms for the word originally

Practice with vocabulary originally

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The research proposal was ____ intended for a small grant, but its potential led to broader funding opportunities.
  2. Her decision to leave the company was ____ motivated by the desire for a better work-life balance.
  3. This historic theatre, known for its elaborate Victorian architecture, was ____ a bustling market hall before its conversion.
  4. Although the team experienced some difficulties ____ with the new software, they quickly adapted.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. The company's flagship product, a specialized design software, was ____ developed for engineers in the automotive industry. a) eventually b) currently c) originally d) frequently
  2. The city council's project to revitalize the downtown area was ____ to stimulate local business growth, though it faced unexpected delays. a) consequently b) exclusively c) originally d) recently
  3. Many linguists believe that all Indo-European languages ____ from a common ancestral language spoken thousands of years ago. a) primarily b) ultimately c) originally d) solely
  4. The primary purpose of the new safety regulations is ____ to prevent workplace accidents. a) originally b) primarily c) consequently d) frequently
  5. When we first implemented the new data management system, we encountered a few integration issues ____, but they were quickly resolved. a) originally b) ultimately c) initially d) formally

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. This building was a post office when it was first built, but it's now a modern co-working space.
    • Rewrite the sentence, using "originally" as an adverb.
  2. The initial draft of the policy did not include a section on sustainability.
    • Rewrite the sentence, using a related word form of "originally".
  3. The main reason for the committee's formation was to review the proposed budget.
    • Rewrite the sentence, without using "originally" or its related forms.

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The research proposal was primarily intended for a small grant, but its potential led to broader funding opportunities.
  2. Her decision to leave the company was originally motivated by the desire for a better work-life balance.
  3. This historic theatre, known for its elaborate Victorian architecture, was originally a bustling market hall before its conversion.
  4. Although the team experienced some difficulties initially with the new software, they quickly adapted.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. c) originally
  2. c) originally
  3. c) originally
  4. b) primarily
  5. c) initially

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. This building was originally a post office, but it's now a modern co-working space.
  2. The original draft of the policy did not include a section on sustainability.
  3. The committee's formation was primarily to review the proposed budget.

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