in the first place

• Expressão idiomática usada para enfatizar a causa original ou inicial de algo, ou para se referir ao começo de uma situação ou argumento.

An idiomatic expression used to emphasize the initial or original reason for something, or to refer back to the beginning of a situation or argument.

1. Initially or originallyB1informal

   Used to refer to the beginning of a situation or sequence of events.

   Em primeiro lugar

   • Why did you agree to help in the first place?
   • In the first place, I didn't want to go to the party.
   • He should have told me the truth in the first place.

2. As the first reason or pointB2informal

   Used to introduce the first and most important reason or argument.

   Em primeiro lugar

   • In the first place, the plan is too expensive.
   • In the first place, we don't have enough time.
   • In the first place, you need to apologize for your behavior.