What is anothor word for initial?

Here are some other words for "initial," depending on the context:

General:

* First

* Beginning

* Opening

* Introductory

* Preliminary

* Starting

* Primary

* Original

* Fundamental

For letters:

* First letter

* Opening letter

For stages or processes:

* Early

* First phase

* Starting point

* Inception

* Commencement

The best word to use will depend on the specific context of your sentence.