Witness for the first time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Witness for the first time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the experience of seeing or experiencing something for the first time. Example: "As I stood at the edge of the Grand Canyon, I felt a sense of awe as I witnessed for the first time the breathtaking view before me."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

If it is sucked in, scientists will witness for the first time a significant "feeding event," which will result in a massive release of energy that helps galaxies and stars evolve.

Columbia University

We wanted to witness, for the first time, a video game properly make our skin crawl.

Vice

And thank you to Kiehl's and amfAR for making this day possible for some to remember and others to witness for the first time.

Huffington Post

Scotland Yard released enhanced footage of a possible witness for the first time on Monday.

The Guardian

To witness for the first time the level of support for the home side and hatred of the English was incredible.

Independent

Contribute with Guardian Witness For the first time, Cornish people are to receive the same rights and protections as other minorities in the UK.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

This artist's illustration depicts the destruction of a young planet, which scientists may have witnessed for the first time.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

However, as I crested the final ridge, all of my physical woes were forgotten as I witnessed, for the first time, the majestic, glacier-covered landscape of the Rinchen Zoe region.

The New York Times

The date line is the logical consequence of the so-called Circumnavigator's Paradox, which was known to scientists [4] before it was witnessed for the first time by Antonio Pigafetta in the early 16th century.

The New York Times

I had witnessed for the first time what took place behind the thin curtain of art, and it gave me some protection the next time I saw him onstage, decked out in full costume.

The New Yorker

This artist's illustration depicts the destruction of a young planet or planets, which scientists may have witnessed for the first time using data from NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory, as described in our latest press release.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "witness for the first time" to emphasize the unique or novel nature of an observed event. For example, "The scientists were thrilled to witness for the first time the effects of the new drug."

Common error

Avoid using "witness for the first time" when the 'first-time' aspect is already implied. Instead of saying "He witnessed for the first time his first lunar eclipse", simply state "He witnessed his first lunar eclipse."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "witness for the first time" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb. It indicates the timing or circumstances under which an action (witnessing) occurs. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is correct and frequently used in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

21%

Science

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "witness for the first time" is a grammatically correct phrase used to emphasize the novelty of an observed event. It functions as an adverbial phrase and commonly appears in News & Media, Academia, and Scientific contexts. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is usable in written English. While generally neutral, it can become more formal based on the writing context. When using this phrase, be mindful of potential redundancy and ensure the novelty isn't already implied.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

See for the very first occasion

Highlights the visual aspect and the novelty of the experience.

View for the first time

Similar to 'see', but can imply a more focused or intentional act of looking.

Experience for the inaugural time

Emphasizes the act of personally undergoing something new.

Encounter for the first time

Stresses the unexpected or unplanned nature of the experience.

Observe for the initial instance

Focuses on careful or scientific observation.

Perceive for the first instance

Emphasizes understanding or becoming aware for the first time.

Undergo for the first time

Highlights the personal experience and process.

Behold for the first time

Adds a sense of wonder and awe to the experience.

Recognize for the initial time

Focuses on identifying or acknowledging something new.

Participate for the first time

Emphasizes active involvement in a new event or activity.

FAQs

How can I use "Witness for the first time" in a sentence?

Use "witness for the first time" to describe a novel observation or experience. For example, "She was amazed to "witness for the first time" the Northern Lights during her trip to Iceland."

What are some alternatives to "Witness for the first time"?

You can use phrases like "see for the very first occasion", "experience for the inaugural time", or "observe for the initial instance" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it redundant to use "Witness for the first time" if the context already implies it's a new experience?

Yes, it can be redundant. If the context clearly indicates it's a first-time occurrence, simply using "witness" is often sufficient. For example, instead of "She witnessed for the first time her child's birth", you could say "She witnessed her child's birth".

What is the difference between "Witness for the first time" and "See for the first time"?

While both phrases are similar, "Witness for the first time" often implies a more significant or impactful observation, while "see for the first time" is a more general term for visual perception.