first

> first and firstly
first and firstly are now both considered acceptable in lists, although formerly firstly was considered unacceptable. Originally the acceptable form of such a list was as in "There are several reasons for staying here. First, we like the house, secondly we have pleasant neighbours, thirdly we hate moving house". Some users now prefer to use the adjectival forms of "second" and "third" when using first, as in "He has stated his reasons for going to another job. First, he has been offered a higher salary, second, he has more opportunities for promotion, third, he will have a company car". As indicated, firstly is now quite acceptable and is the form preferred by many people, as in "They have several reasons for not having a car. Firstly they have very little money, secondly, they live right next to the bus-stop, thirdly, they feel cars are not environmentally friendly".