Firstly... and First...
In the case of to itemize steps of doing something, two expressions as follows

"Firstly, .... Secondly, .... Thirdly,... etc."

"First, .... Second, .... Third,... etc."

I know both expressions are correct, though I have the question, which one is more formal? I googled them once and I found that the first one is old, maybe back to 18th century.

So, could you tell me about the difference between these two expressions or which one do you use commonly as a native speaker? The second one? Right?In the case of itemizing.. sorry

Question

Firstly... and First...
In the case of to itemize steps of doing something, two expressions as follows

"Firstly, .... Secondly, .... Thirdly,... etc."

"First, .... Second, .... Third,... etc."

I know both expressions are correct, though I have the question, which one is more formal? I googled them once and I found that the first one is old, maybe back to 18th century.

So, could you tell me about the difference between these two expressions or which one do you use commonly as a native speaker? The second one? Right?In the case of itemizing.. sorry

Answer

"First," is much more common in the US.  I don't think it's not so much a matter of formal or informal; it's just what's more common.  "Firstly" is acceptable also. Of course, you can't switch back and forth in your writing. (Firstly..., second..., thirdly... would be wrong.)

I prefer "First" because it sounds a bit more to the point.  That's only my preference though.

"Firstly, secondly, and thirdly" are fine...but how on earth do I pronounce "twelfthly"?   : )

Answer

The "-ly" screams ADVERB.  So use "firstly, secondly, thirdly" if you want to highlight the action in the statements.  Just my thoughts; disagreements are welcome. :)

I'd use the "first, second, third" as if I were reading out my list, point-form.  This is the common modern use.

I realise that's really splitting hairs - you could use one or the other these days, no-one would complain.

Answer

Either is correct.

Answer

I don't very often have to itemise things but when I do I use Firstly, Secondly etc.

Answer

Thank you all for your careful answers! They are really helpful.

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