secondly

Everyday

1. Secondly means «in the second place» and is used to give the second point in a list of reasons or steps, after «firstly» or «first». tree →
2. It helps a reader or listener follow an argument step by step. tree →

In the lessons

In English lessons it is a linking word (a connective) for writing explanations, arguments and instructions: firstly, secondly, thirdly, finally. In maths it helps explain methods: «Firstly, add the tens; secondly, add the ones.» Phrases: firstly … secondly … finally; and secondly.

Examples

• Firstly, wash your hands; secondly, put on your apron. tree →
• I can't come, firstly because I'm ill and secondly because it's raining. tree →
• Secondly, multiply the answer by three. tree →
• Schools should have longer breaks: firstly, we need exercise; secondly, we learn better after playing. tree →
• Secondly, the knight rescued the dragon instead of fighting it. tree →
• In my persuasive letter, I wrote my second reason after «secondly». tree →
• Secondly, check your answer by doing the opposite operation. tree →

Note

Use «secondly» or «second» to start the second point; both are correct. Put a comma after it at the start of a sentence. It does not mean «in a second» (quickly). Do not mix «first» with «secondly» in careful writing; use «firstly … secondly» or «first … second».