1.
initially, at first, at the beginning
Refers to the early stage or original point in time when something began. Often implies a contrast with what happened later.
当初の予定から変更があった。
There was a change from the original plan.
当初は反対だったが、今は賛成している。
I was against it at first, but now I agree.
工事は当初の見積もりよりも大幅に費用がかかった。
The construction cost significantly more than the initial estimate.
USAGE:
Can function as a noun modifying other nouns (当初の計画 = initial plan) or as an adverb (当初は = at first). Slightly formal in register. Almost always implies that what was originally the case has since changed.
COMMON PATTERNS:
- 当初の予定: the original schedule
- 当初の目的: the original purpose
- 当初は〜だったが: at first it was... but
- 当初予算: initial budget