最初

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 最初 is read as さいしょ and can mean “first” or “beginning”, depending on context.
• Basic usage: The examples show the first step in an introduction and the range from beginning to end.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Distinguishing senses and uses
  • 最初に marks the first step in a sequence, while 最初から marks the starting point; 初めて instead concerns a first-ever experience.