a first

USAGE SUMMARY

"a first" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
You can use it to denote an initial occurrence or instance of something. For example, "This was a first for me, so I was very nervous."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

A first.

The New York Times

That's a first down".

The New York Times - Sports

It's a first.

The New York Times - Arts

Here's a first look.

The New York Times

I got a First.

Independent

Do a first ascent.

Independent

Or a first love.

The New York Times - Books

This is a first.

The Economist

I wanted a first.

Independent

No, it's a first.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

It's a first-class facility.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a first" to clearly indicate the initiation or beginning of an action, event, or process. This helps in establishing a timeline or sequence.

Common error

Avoid using "a first" when you actually mean "the best" or "top-quality". "A first" simply denotes the initial instance, not necessarily superior quality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a first" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject complement or object. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use in expressing an initial occurrence, achievement, or attribute. The phrase contributes to naming something in the beginning of a chain.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Wiki

28%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a first" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase, indicating the initial occurrence of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a valid and useful expression in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media and Wiki contexts, "a first" maintains a neutral formality level, making it versatile for various writing styles. To avoid common errors, ensure it is not misused to denote quality instead of mere initiation. Related phrases like "an initial step" and "a debut" offer nuanced alternatives for expressing the concept of something being initial. Ludwig provides numerous examples highlighting its diverse applications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an initial step

Replaces "a first" with emphasis on the start of a process or action.

a debut

Focuses on the first public appearance or performance.

the first of its kind

Highlights the uniqueness and novelty of the item or event.

a primary attempt

Replaces "a first" with a more formal emphasis on effort.

an inaugural

Emphasizes the beginning or start of something, particularly in a formal context.

a maiden voyage

Specifically refers to the first journey of a vehicle or ship.

a premiere

Refers to the first public showing of a film, play, or other performance.

a groundbreaking event

Highlights the innovative and precedent-setting nature of the event.

a nascent stage

Highlights the early or beginning stage of something.

an opening gambit

Implies a strategic initial move, often in a negotiation or competition.

FAQs

How to use "a first" in a sentence?

You can use "a first" to indicate the beginning of something, as in "This is "a first step" towards achieving our goals" or to denote an unprecedented event, like "It's "a first for the company"".

What can I say instead of "a first"?

Alternatives to "a first" include "an initial step", "a debut", or "the first of its kind" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "a first" or "the first"?

Both "a first" and "the first" are correct, but they have different meanings. "A first" refers to an initial instance, while "the first" refers to a specific, already identified initial instance. For example, "This is a first attempt" versus "This is the first attempt we've documented".

What's the difference between "a first" and "firstly"?

"A first" functions as a noun phrase indicating an initial instance, whereas "firstly" is an adverb used to introduce the first point in a series of arguments or reasons. You might say, "A first consideration is cost," but you would use "Firstly" to start a list, as in "Firstly, we need to gather data".