At first glance

USAGE SUMMARY

"At first glance" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is usually used to describe an initial impression or an initial perception of something. For example: At first glance, the painting seemed to be a simple landscape, but as I studied it further, I realized it contained hidden symbolism.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

At first glance, the….

The New Yorker

At first glance, they're….

The New Yorker

At first glance, perhaps not.

The Economist

At first glance, that's odd.

Independent

At first glance, the idea seems great.

The New York Times

At first glance, JPMorgan looks unfairly penalized.

The New York Times

At first glance, unguessable.

The Guardian - Tech

At first glance it makes little sense.

The New York Times - Health

At first glance, the work appears frivolous.

The New Yorker

At first glance, that seems perfectly reasonable.

The New Yorker

At first glance, they look like books.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "At first glance", ensure that the subsequent text provides a more detailed or nuanced view that challenges or expands upon the initial impression.

Common error

Avoid using "At first glance" as a substitute for thorough analysis. Always provide a deeper investigation or counter-argument to enrich your discussion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "At first glance" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the initial perception or impression of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a standard expression used to introduce a superficial or preliminary assessment. Examples show it setting up a contrast with a deeper analysis.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "At first glance" is a common and grammatically correct adverbial phrase used to introduce an initial impression or superficial assessment. As supported by Ludwig AI, it sets the stage for a more detailed analysis or contrasting perspective. It is used frequently in news, academic, and scientific contexts. To enhance your writing, use it to create depth and contrast, but ensure you follow up with a more thorough investigation. Alternatives include "initially" and "on the surface".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

At first sight

Similar meaning, often used when referring to visual impressions.

At a glance

Shorter version emphasizing the speed of the initial assessment.

From a cursory observation

Stresses that the assessment is based on a brief and incomplete examination.

On initial inspection

Highlights that the assessment is based on examining something.

On the surface

Emphasizes that the observation is based on a superficial assessment.

To the casual observer

Implies that a more discerning observer might see something different.

Initially

Focuses on the starting point of an observation or assessment.

Superficially

Highlights the lack of depth in the initial assessment.

From the outset

Focuses on the initial stage or beginning of something.

In the beginning

Focuses on the temporal aspect of the initial perception.

FAQs

How can I use "At first glance" in a sentence?

Use "At first glance" to introduce an initial impression or observation that you intend to elaborate on or contrast with a more detailed analysis. For example: "At first glance, the problem seemed insurmountable, but with careful planning, we found a solution."

What phrases are similar to "At first glance"?

You can use alternatives like "initially", "on the surface", or "at first sight" to convey a similar meaning.

When is it appropriate to use "At first glance" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "At first glance" when you want to present an initial, often superficial, observation before providing a more in-depth or nuanced perspective. It's useful for creating contrast and engaging the reader.

Is there a difference between "At first glance" and "at first sight"?

While both phrases are similar, "At first glance" is more broadly applicable to any initial impression, whereas "at first sight" typically refers to visual impressions or immediate attraction.