First

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "First" is a correct and usable word in written English.
It can be used to describe the initial occurrence of something or to refer to the order of a sequence of events or objects. For example: "First, I took out the trash before starting dinner."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

ReprintsThe first "arm" of the trial, in which PRO 2000 formed 2% of the gel, was abandoned early because results elsewhere suggested this was an ineffective mix.

The Economist

You read it here first.

The New York Times

FIRST, the bad news.

The New York Times - Food

"Mr Carmichael said at the time that the first he was aware of this matter was when he received a call from a journalist, but we now know that this is simply untrue.

The Guardian

The case has already been referred to the police ombudsman but, as the first minister has said, we should have a full, independent examination of the whole operation of this scheme.

The Guardian

For the first 12 years it was the plain old Terry Wogan Show and you were all Twits, the Terry Wogan is Tops Society.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Just before Ive took me into the studio for the first time, he remarked that all the buildings were similarly linked.

The Guardian - Tech

I don't know the first thing about it.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Remember, you read it here first.

The New York Times

Jeff Carter scored in the opening minute of the second and third periods for the Kings, who became the first road team to win in the series.

The New York Times - Sports

"We lost the game in the first half".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When sequencing instructions or arguments, use "First" to clearly mark the initial step or point. This enhances clarity and organization.

Common error

Avoid starting every sentence with "First" in a simple narrative. Vary your sentence structure by using other transitional words like "Initially", "To begin with", or simply rephrasing to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "First" is to serve as an ordinal adjective or adverb, indicating the initial position in a sequence, a priority, or the commencement of an action. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Sports

20%

Lifestyle

10%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "First" functions as a versatile tool for indicating precedence, initial steps, or top priorities across numerous contexts. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and prevalent use in writing. While "First" is common, consider the context and audience. Use "initially", "foremost", or "to begin with" for variety. Remember to avoid overuse in narratives and explore transitional words to enhance clarity and engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Firstly

An adverbial form indicating the first in a series of points or actions.

Foremost

Highlights the leading or most prominent position, resembling "First" in indicating top rank.

Initially

Focuses on the beginning stage or starting point, similar to "First" in indicating the commencement of something.

Number one

Specifies the top position or priority, similar to "First" when indicating precedence.

To begin with

Signals the start of a sequence or list, similar to "First" in introducing the initial item.

At the outset

Indicates the commencement or start of something, akin to "First" in setting the initial context.

Primarily

Emphasizes the main or most important aspect, akin to "First" when used to highlight priority.

In the first place

Highlights the initial consideration or reason, similar to "First" when emphasizing a starting point.

In the beginning

Refers to the earliest stage or origin, like "First" when denoting the initial phase.

Originally

Indicates the initial state or condition, like "First" when referring to the start of something.

FAQs

How can I use "First" to introduce a series of points?

"First" is effectively used at the beginning of a sentence to introduce the initial point in a sequence. For example, "First, consider the budget implications before proceeding further."

What alternatives can I use instead of "First"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "initially", "foremost", or "to begin with" to introduce the first item in a sequence.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "First"?

Yes, starting a sentence with "First" is grammatically correct, especially when outlining a series of steps or arguments. It provides a clear indication of order and precedence.

How does "First" differ from "Firstly"?

"First" can function as both an adjective and an adverb, whereas "firstly" is exclusively an adverb. Both are used to introduce the first item in a sequence, but "First" can also refer to the ordinal position.