a first call

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a first call" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to an initial communication or contact made in a particular context, such as business or personal interactions. Example: "After reviewing the proposal, I decided to make a first call to discuss the details further."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

"You never close a sale on a first call," he said.

The New York Times

The Program will begin with two awards to be made following a first call for proposals in spring 2015 with additional calls in subsequent years.

University of California, Berkeley

In Massachusetts, for example, volunteers in a "first call" network linking veteran parents to new ones are now offering support to couples deciding whether to continue a pregnancy.

The New York Times

Even a first call to a simple 'helloWorld' program takes a while to complete, but following calls then respond immediately.

Journal of Cheminformatics

In the old days when a company was in trouble, the debt holders had a first call on earnings and assets.

Forbes

Pil is avoiding a ten-year Fannie Mae note with an initial 4% coupon and a first call after three years.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Two productive years brought a first call-up by England at the age of 29.

The Guardian - Sport

Nevertheless, the absence of Ferdinand is a blow given Gary Cahill joined the list of injured central defenders yesterday, triggering a first call-up for Newcastle's Steven Taylor.

Independent

Rodriguez is certainly impressing, earning a first call-up to the England senior side for the upcoming friendlies with Chile and Germany.

Independent

Could a first call-up be in the offing for the 22-year-old?

BBC

Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill has handed a first call-up to Dundee United's uncapped Paul Paton as Clingan's replacement.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a first call" in business contexts, ensure you clearly state the purpose of the initial communication to set the right expectations and tone.

Common error

Avoid using "a first call" interchangeably with financial terms like 'First Call Consensus' (a financial estimate) or 'callable bonds' (bonds that can be redeemed early). Context is key to ensure clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a first call" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It signifies an initial communication, request, or opportunity, as demonstrated in the examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a first call" is grammatically sound and serves to indicate an initial communication or opportunity. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is accurate and usable in written English. It appears most frequently in News & Media contexts, with a neutral register suitable for diverse communications. When using "a first call", be mindful of potential confusion with financial terms and consider the context to ensure clarity and appropriateness. Alternatives such as "initial contact" or "preliminary call" may offer nuanced meanings for specific situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initial contact

Focuses on the act of making the first communication.

preliminary call

Emphasizes the exploratory or preparatory nature of the call.

opening call

Highlights the call as the beginning of a process.

initial outreach

Broader term emphasizing the act of reaching out for the first time.

first contact attempt

More explicit about the attempt to make contact.

first request

Highlights the act of asking something for the first time.

maiden call

More formal and less common, implying the very first instance.

inaugural call

Similar to 'maiden call', suggesting a formal beginning.

first opportunity

Shifts the focus to the initial chance to do something.

opening gambit

Implies a strategic first move or approach.

FAQs

How can I use "a first call" in a sentence?

You can use "a first call" to refer to an initial contact or request. For example, "Firefighters received "a first call" on the attacks about 12:50 p.m."

What's the difference between "a first call" and "an initial call"?

While both phrases refer to the beginning of communication, "an initial call" is a more general term. "A first call" can sometimes imply a specific or formal context.

Can "a first call" refer to something other than a phone call?

Yes, "a first call" can refer to any initial request or contact, not just phone calls. It can apply to proposals, opportunities, or even being called up for a sports team.

What phrases are similar to "a first call"?

Alternatives include "initial contact", "preliminary call", or "opening call", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.