a baptism by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a baptism by" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in expressions to describe a significant initiation or introduction to a new experience, often with a sense of challenge or difficulty. Example: "He experienced a baptism by fire when he took on the leadership role during the crisis."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

This is certainly a baptism by fire".

The New York Times

It was a baptism by fire.

The New York Times

DF: It was a baptism by fire.

The Guardian - Film

He dropped me into a baptism by fire.

The New York Times

For the Hawks it was a baptism by fire, and it all but burned them out.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Mr. Wramage called his first-ever orchestral performance, at Aspen, a "baptism by fire".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

His polish is now being given a baptism-by-fire test as the Arab world seethes with unrest, Japan faces nuclear catastrophe and the threat of a government shutdown looms.

The New York Times

Anyone could become a Nuyorican through a "baptism" performed by Mr. Pietri who represented his own sect La Iglesia de la Madre de Los Tomates (the Church of the Mother of Tomatoes).

The New York Times

Terms and phrases such as "knock on wood," "cross your fingers," "to have an epiphany," "you're a saint," "Baptism by fire," "hail Mary pass," "the Holy Grail of...," "I take my hat off to you," "church and state," "BC/AD (Before Christ/Anno Domini), "THE new millennium," "El Niño /La Niña," "Devil's advocate" and many others derive from Christianity in that they have Christian antecedents.

Huffington Post

His first production there, of Sarah Kane's Cleansed, was "a real baptism by fire".

The Guardian

Part of the journey involves inevitable "failures," or at the very least a little baptism by fire.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a baptism by" to describe a challenging or overwhelming introduction to a new role, task, or environment. It is particularly effective when the initial experience is intense and requires rapid adaptation.

Common error

Avoid using "a baptism by" for simple learning experiences or routine introductions. This phrase implies a significant level of difficulty and pressure, so ensure the context warrants such a strong description.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a baptism by" functions as part of an idiomatic expression, where the complete idiom "a baptism by fire" acts as a noun phrase. It typically describes a very challenging or difficult introduction to something new. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a baptism by", most commonly found in the idiom "a baptism by fire", describes a difficult or challenging introduction to a new experience. Grammatically sound and widely used, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, its frequency is rated as 'common', primarily appearing in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, it's crucial to ensure that the context warrants the implied level of intensity, and in more formal settings, alternatives like "challenging initiation" might be more appropriate. Remember that the core essence of "a baptism by fire" is about facing trials under pressure and adapting quickly.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

baptism of fire

Omitting 'a' doesn't change the meaning but renders it slightly less formal and more emphatic.

trial by fire

This alternative uses 'trial' instead of 'baptism', emphasizing the testing and challenging aspect of the experience.

baptism in the trenches

This variation evokes imagery of frontline experience, implying a gritty and practical introduction.

initiation by ordeal

This phrase suggests a more ritualistic or severe entry into a new role or situation.

challenging initiation

This focuses on the difficulty and the beginning nature of the experience.

crash course

This option is less dramatic and more focused on the rapid learning involved in a new experience.

rigorous induction

This phrase is more formal and emphasizes the strictness and thoroughness of the introductory process.

intense introduction

This is a more straightforward and less metaphorical way of describing a difficult start.

steep learning curve

This alternative highlights the rapid pace of learning and adjustment required.

sink or swim

This idiom describes a situation where someone is forced to succeed on their own or fail.

FAQs

What does "a baptism by fire" mean?

The expression "a baptism by fire" signifies a difficult or challenging initial experience, often involving high pressure and a steep learning curve. It suggests being thrown into a situation without much preparation.

How can I use "a baptism by fire" in a sentence?

You can use "a baptism by fire" to describe someone's first encounter with a demanding task or role. For example, "Her first week as a project manager was "a baptism by fire", with multiple deadlines and unexpected crises."

What are some alternatives to "a baptism by fire"?

Alternatives to "a baptism by fire" include "trial by fire", "intense introduction", or "crash course". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a baptism by fire" in formal writing?

While "a baptism by fire" is widely understood, it might be considered too informal for some formal writing contexts. In such cases, consider using more neutral phrases like "challenging initiation" or "rigorous induction".