d'abord

first

adverb dah-BOR Common

Also means

at first

Usage Note

D'abord is a sequencing adverb used to introduce the first item in a series, often paired with ensuite (then) and enfin (finally). It can also mean 'first of all' when asserting a point in an argument. The underlying noun abord means 'approach' or 'manner', and d'abord literally once meant 'from the outset'.

Examples

"D'abord, lave tes mains."

Natural Translation

First, wash your hands.

Literal Translation

First, wash your hands.

Related Words

Explore French by topic

FrenchNow

Ordering Food in French: Restaurant Phrases That Work

Order food in French with confidence: greet first, say je voudrais not je veux, ask for a carafe d'eau, answer quelle cuisson, and request the bill yourself.

June 4, 2026 6 min read

FrenchNow

French Café Culture: How to Order Like a Local

In a French café, un café means espresso, one drink rents the table for an hour, and you must ask for the bill. Order coffee like a local with these phrases.

June 4, 2026 7 min read

FrenchNow

Tu vs Vous: When to Use Each in French

Tu vs vous in French: use tu for one friend, family, or child, and vous for strangers, elders, your boss, and any group. A clear etiquette guide.

June 3, 2026 6 min read

FrenchNow

Faire in French: To Make, To Do, and More

Faire in French means more than make and do: master faire vs rendre, weather and sports idioms, the causative, and the mistakes English speakers make.

June 4, 2026 6 min read