at the beginning
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at the beginning
Indicates the beginning of something, either in time or in a text or speech. It is a more formal variant of 'am Anfang' (at the beginning).
Eingangs möchte ich allen für ihr Kommen danken.
At the beginning, I would like to thank everyone for coming.
The word 'eingangs' (at the beginning/at the entrance) is derived from the noun 'der Eingang' (the entrance). The ending '-s' forms an adverb here, similar to 'abends' (in the evenings) or 'morgens' (in the mornings). The basic meaning 'at the entrance' is preserved in both uses, once spatially and once figuratively for the beginning of a text or speech.
Eingangs des Tals befindet sich ein kleiner See.
At the entrance to the valley there is a small lake.
When 'eingangs' (at the beginning) is at the beginning of a main clause (position 1), the verb follows directly after it in position 2. The subject of the sentence then moves behind the verb.
Eingangs wurde die Tagesordnung vorgestellt.
At the beginning, the agenda was presented.
'Eingangs' (at the beginning) is a formal word that is mainly used in written language, in speeches, or in formal contexts. In normal conversation, people would more likely say 'am Anfang' (at the beginning).
Eingangs seiner Rede betonte der Präsident die Wichtigkeit des Themas.
At the beginning of his speech, the president emphasized the importance of the topic.
You can almost always recognize the spatial meaning by the fact that 'eingangs' (at the entrance) is used with a genitive object. This object describes the place whose entrance is meant.
Eingangs des Gebäudes müssen alle Besucher ihre Taschen vorzeigen.
At the entrance to the building, all visitors must show their bags.
first / for now
'zunächst' and 'eingangs' can both mark the beginning. 'zunächst' is general and fits well when describing the first step in an action. 'eingangs' sounds more formal and is used especially in texts, speeches, meetings, or explanations. It means roughly 'at the beginning of it'. The words can be confused because both point to the beginning. In everyday language, 'zunächst' is usually more natural; 'eingangs' fits better when someone mentions something at the beginning of a text or conversation.
Eingangs hat die Ärztin erklärt, warum die Untersuchung wichtig ist.
At the beginning, the doctor explained why the examination was important.
Lea gießt zunächst die Pflanzen auf dem Balkon und räumt danach die Küche auf.
Lea first waters the plants on the balcony and then tidies up the kitchen.