はじめに
はじめに
expression
to begin with; first of all; Introduction (section heading)
1.
to begin with; first of all; at the outset
An adverbial phrase introducing the first thing said or done, often used to open a speech, explanation, or set of instructions.
はじめに自己紹介をします。
To begin with, I'll introduce myself.
はじめに結論を述べます。
First of all, let me state the conclusion.
はじめに、今日の流れについて簡単に説明しておきます。
To begin with, let me briefly explain today's schedule.
2.
Introduction; Preface (section heading)
A standard heading at the front of a book or document, especially non-fiction, marking the introductory section. Equivalent to an English "Introduction" or "Preface."
「はじめに」を読む。
To read the 'Introduction.'
この本の「はじめに」に執筆の目的が書いてある。
The aim of writing is stated in this book's 'Introduction.'
論文の「はじめに」では、研究の背景と目的を述べるのが一般的だ。
In a paper's 'Introduction,' it is common to state the background and aim of the research.
Sense 1 is the everyday adverbial use; sense 2 is the fixed section heading, usually written in kana and set in quotation marks or as a title.
SIMILAR WORDS:
- まず: first — a plainer adverb for the same opening function as sense 1.
- 序文: preface — a more formal heading than はじめに for sense 2.
- おわりに: in closing — the counterpart heading for the final section.