Spanish Phrase
Primero voy a hablar de...
Meaning
Literally, 'First I am going to talk about...'. It is a standard way to introduce the first item in a list of topics, especially in presentations, essays, or structured conversations.
When to use
Use this phrase at the beginning of a speech, a classroom presentation, a meeting, or any written text where you need to outline the order of your points. It signals to the listener that a clear, organized structure follows.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Primerovoyahablarde...
Primero (adverb)
Used to indicate the first point in a sequence; it does not change form.
Ir + a + infinitive
A periphrastic future meaning 'I am going to...'; the verb 'ir' is conjugated and followed by 'a' + infinitive.
hablar de
The verb 'hablar' requires the preposition 'de' (or 'sobre') to introduce the topic you will discuss.
🗨In Conversation
Primero voy a hablar de la historia del arte en el Renacimiento.
First, I'm going to talk about the history of art in the Renaissance.
¡Perfecto! Después, ¿qué tema sigue?
Great! After that, what's the next topic?
✕Common Mistakes
Primero voy a hablar la historia del arte.
The verb must be followed by the preposition 'de' (or 'sobre') to indicate the topic.
Primero hablo de la historia del arte.
Do not omit the auxiliary 'voy a' if you intend a future meaning; using present simple changes the nuance.
El primero voy a hablar de...
Avoid using 'Primero' as a noun here; it should stay as an adverb of order.
↔Alternatives
En primer lugar, hablaré de...
In the first place, I will talk about...
Primero, trataré el tema de...
First, I will address the topic of...
Para empezar, comentaré...
To begin with, I will comment on...
Cultural Tip
In formal Spanish contexts—such as academic lectures or business meetings—'Primero voy a hablar de…' is preferred for its clear, orderly tone. In casual conversation, speakers often drop the verb and say simply 'Primero, ...' or use 'Primero' as a standalone cue. Remember that 'primero' can also function as a noun (e.g., 'el primero'), so the surrounding words determine its role.