a first bout of

USAGE SUMMARY

'a first bout of' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is usually used to refer to the first instance of something, typically a physical illness or a behavior. For example, you could say, "She suffered a first bout of anxiety when she had to give a presentation in front of her classmates."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Already, a first bout of procurement will deliver around 175,000 elective (non-emergency) operations a year.

The Economist

An opinion poll by ComRes, conducted after a first bout of student window-smashing in November, found 70% of the public agreed with the protesters' central charge: that higher fees will deter poorer kids from applying to university.

The Economist

It was a rare clean sheet for the Jets, who were defensively sturdy despite the absence of key players Daniel Mullen and Jason Hoffman and made their case for a first bout of finals action in six seasons.

The Guardian - Sport

"If you've had a first bout of depression one of the most important risk factors for a second bout of depression is ongoing insomnia.

Forbes

Hosts did not attempt to avoid attacks and after a first bout of attack soon ceased any attempts to beg for food.

Biology Letters

Similarly, a study in Germany on atmospheric particle concentrations due to fireworks on New Year's Eve showed closely matching temporal patterns of particle concentrations attributed to a first bout of fireworks, a pause due to the exchange of good wishes called "the Champagne dip," followed by a more prolonged period of fireworks (Drewnick et al. 2006).

Behavioral Ecology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Performing a second bout of firefighting increased completion time.

Applied Ergonomics

A second bout of unemployment could be a bigger stigma.

The New York Times

During a second bout of instability, from 1998 to 2002, the region introduced more pragmatic policies.

The Economist

Last year, on turning 70, a second bout of cancer resulted in my losing both breasts.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

After a second bout of tuberculosis, he retired from teaching and began a career as a professional photographer and artist.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a first bout of", ensure the context clearly indicates that it is indeed the initial occurrence. This avoids ambiguity, particularly in medical or recurring event scenarios.

Common error

Avoid using "a first bout of" when referring to a recurring issue. For subsequent occurrences, use phrases like "a second bout of" or "another episode of" to accurately reflect the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a first bout of" functions as a noun phrase, typically modifying another noun to indicate the initial occurrence of an event, illness, or experience. Ludwig examples demonstrate its usage in various contexts, confirming its role in specifying the timing of an event.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a first bout of" refers to the initial occurrence of something, typically an illness or a specific event. Ludwig indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and is most frequently found in News & Media and Scientific contexts. It's crucial to use this phrase accurately, especially when distinguishing it from subsequent occurrences. As Ludwig AI confirms, using related phrases such as "an initial episode of" can provide variety, but ensure the context aligns with the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an initial episode of

Emphasizes the start of an event, similar to a bout, but often used for illnesses or experiences.

a first instance of

Focuses on the occurrence of something for the first time.

an early attack of

Implies a sudden onset, often used in the context of illnesses.

a maiden experience with

Highlights the newness and unfamiliarity of the experience.

the onset of

Focuses on the very beginning or start.

a primary occurrence of

Stresses the fundamental and initial nature of the event.

a fresh wave of

Suggests a new and potentially overwhelming experience.

the inaugural initiation of

Highlights the formal introduction or start of something.

a preliminary stage of

Indicates the beginning phase of a process or experience.

a trial run of

Emphasizes the experimental or tentative nature of the first experience.

FAQs

How can I use "a first bout of" in a sentence?

You can use "a first bout of" to describe the initial occurrence of something, like "She experienced "a first bout of depression" after the stressful event."

What's a good alternative to "a first bout of"?

Alternatives include "an initial episode of" or "a first instance of", which can be used depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "a first bout of" when talking about a recurring condition?

No, "a first bout of" is specifically for the initial occurrence. For subsequent instances, use phrases like "a second bout of" or recurring episode.

What is the difference between "a first bout of" and "the onset of"?

"A first bout of" implies a specific occurrence or attack, while "the onset of" refers to the beginning stage of a condition or event. The former highlights the experience, whereas the latter highlights the starting point.