そもそも

そもそも

"そもそも" means "in the first place" or "to begin with."

Used to bring up the initial reason or premise for beginning something.

そもそも、なぜこの計画を始めたのか忘れてしまった。

To begin with, I have forgotten why we started this project.

Indicates primary concerns or doubts in evaluating a topic.

そもそも、その方法が適切かどうかすら怪しい。

First and foremost, it's questionable whether that method is even appropriate.

Emphasizes the original doubt or disbelief about something.

そもそも、彼の言うことは信じられない。

In the first place, I cannot believe what he says.