最初
Relating to the very beginning of a sequence or process; original.
Examples
3 of 5科学家们回到了最初的假设。
The scientists returned to the initial hypothesis.
这是我们最初设计这款产品时的草图。
This is the sketch from when we initially designed this product.
最初，他并不同意这个提议。
Initially, he did not agree with this proposal.
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of '最' (most) and '初' (beginning). The most beginning point.
Quick Quiz
我们必须找回___的动力。
Correct!
The correct answer is: a
Examples
科学家们回到了最初的假设。
academicThe scientists returned to the initial hypothesis.
这是我们最初设计这款产品时的草图。
businessThis is the sketch from when we initially designed this product.
最初，他并不同意这个提议。
formalInitially, he did not agree with this proposal.
我最初是在北京见到他的。
everydayI first met him in Beijing.
最初我也这么想，后来改主意了。
informalInitially I thought so too, but later I changed my mind.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
从最初开始
from the very beginning
最初的梦想
the original dream
最初迹象
early signs
Often Confused With
开始 is the verb 'to start', while 最初 is an adjective or adverb meaning 'at the very start'.
Usage Notes
Used to contrast a past state with a current or final state.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes use '首先' (first of all) when they mean 'at the very beginning' (最初).
Memory Tip
Think of '最' (most) and '初' (beginning). The most beginning point.
Word Origin
From '最' (most) and '初' (beginning/early).
Grammar Patterns
Quick Quiz
我们必须找回___的动力。
Correct!
The correct answer is: a
Related Vocabulary
More history words
当代
B1Belonging to the present time or the current era. Frequently used in academic writing to distinguish current trends from historical ones.
衰落
B1To decline, wane, or fall from a state of prosperity or power.
里程碑
B1An action or event marking a significant change or stage in development. Originally a stone post at the side of a road showing the distance in miles.
现代
B1Relating to the present or recent times as opposed to the remote past.
历史
B1The study of past events, particularly in human affairs, or the whole series of past events connected with someone or something.
演变
B1The process of gradual development or evolution over time, often used for history, languages, or biological species.
文明
B1The stage of human social development and organization that is considered most advanced. It can also refer to being polite or civilized.
变革
B1A fundamental or major change in a system, structure, or way of doing things, often for the better.
起源
B1The point or place where something begins, arises, or is derived. It refers to the historical or physical root of something.
见证
B1To see something happen; to be a witness to an event or a period of time.
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