まず

• Reading: まず
• Romaji: mazu
• Pronunciation: /ma.zɯ/

Meaning

First of all; to start with; to begin with. Indicates the first step in a sequence of actions.

An adverb used to mark the first action in a series or to establish a starting point. Also carries a softening nuance meaning 'at any rate' or 'for now.' The kanji 先ず is occasionally seen but hiragana is standard. Essential for giving instructions or explaining procedures.

Examples

1. まず手を洗ってから、料理を始めましょう。 First, wash your hands, then let's start cooking.
2. まず自己紹介をお願いします。 First of all, please introduce yourself.
3. お腹が空いたから、まずご飯を食べよう。 I'm hungry, so let's eat first.

Usage Guide

Context: instructions, procedures, daily life

Tone: organized

Origin & History

The kanji 先ず uses 先 (saki, ahead/before), reflecting the meaning of doing something before anything else. The word has been used since classical Japanese to indicate priority or sequence.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal