起初...，...才... describes a development where at first things were one way, and only later did another stage occur.
Two-stage timeline - initial phase then delayed shift
才 marks late realization/change - not immediate progression
Narrative usefulness - learning curves, adaptation, problem solving
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Keep both stages explicit
- 起初 segment and 才 segment should both be present.
才 implies later-than-expected transition
- Replacing with 就 changes nuance.
Ensure logical development arc
- Second stage should follow naturally from first.
At first I could not understand,and only later gradually adapted.
At first everyone disagreed,and only after discussion accepted it.
At first progress was slow,and only after adjustments sped up.
At first he did not dare speak,and only after getting familiar spoke up.
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