The book: The Grammar Devotional: Daily tips for successful Writing from Grammar Girl
Week 25- Saturday- Who’s on First Versus Firstly:
“Although it’s acceptable to order sentences firstly, secondly, thirdly, etc., in your writing, many people (including me) prefer first, second, and third for their simplicity and directness. Firstly just sounds fussy to me. And for heaven’s sake, don’t mix the two forms.”
I have never used firstly… I didn’t even think it was acceptable. Which way do you prefer?
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I have to agree with the excerpt. No one says “firstly.”
Carol, I’ve seen it used a couple times in my lifetime but not often, thank goodness.
Definitely first, second, third … the others sound too “put upon” and stuffy 🙂
Julie, I totally agree.