Wednesday, March 3, 2010

Is it correct to say: first of all, second of all, etc.?

Is it correct to say: first of all, second of all, etc.?

hear this "first of all, second of all," more and more. It seems to me it's not right and one should just say "first of all, second, third, etc. I've listened to a prominent radio talk show journalist get up to "fourth of all."Who is correct? Thanks

In common usage, "first of all" seems to be the only one that is generally accepted. If making multiple points, "first of all" is usually followed by "second" or "secondly", then "third" or "thirdly", and so on. The inclusion of "of all" for the first item in a list seems to be an indicator emphasizing to the person spoken to that a list of items or points is to follow. Thus, it is unnecessary after being used once.

I take this answer.

Article Source: http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20080410094147AAACygu

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