a first consideration

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a first consideration" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing priorities or the most important factors to take into account in a given situation. Example: "When planning the project, a first consideration should be the budget constraints."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

conditions and "with the demands of the riding public's service as a first consideration rather than an afterthought".

The New Yorker

He stressed prohibition, basic education and the relief of indebted peasants; broadly he hoped that the interests of the villages would be a first consideration.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In a first consideration the exhaust gas outlet is constrained to 130 °C to stay above the acid dew point (study 1).

Applied Thermal Engineering

A first consideration in the identification of a suitable working fluid is the operating vapor temperature range and a selection of fluids.

Heat Pipes Theory, Design and Applications

As had been the case in every crisis in his life, a first consideration was to have people loyal to him around him, aides and allies who could be counted on to take his orders without question.

The New Yorker

It is the insistence, as a first consideration, upon the interdependence of the various elements in and parts of the United States of America - a recognition of the old and permanently important manifestation of the American spirit of the pioneer.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

A second consideration is durability.

Cornell University

A third consideration centres on the receptivity of the advice.

Nature

A third consideration is that sizable partisan minorities would be displeased with either winner.

The New York Times

A third consideration is whether private investments also create benefits for society through spillovers or externalities.

Harvard Business Review

But a second consideration makes the generational segmentation scheme even more meaningless, and indeed obsolete.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When starting a project or analysis, clearly state "a first consideration" to set the stage for what is fundamentally important.

Common error

Avoid implying that "a first consideration" is the only consideration; ensure you acknowledge subsequent factors to maintain a balanced perspective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a first consideration" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or an appositive. It identifies the primary element to be taken into account. Ludwig confirms this through numerous examples where the phrase introduces a crucial aspect of a topic.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

31%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

12%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a first consideration" is a phrase used to introduce the most important initial factor to consider in any situation. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly found in various contexts, including scientific, news, and formal business settings. While it's crucial to highlight the primary aspect, it's equally important to acknowledge and address subsequent considerations for a comprehensive understanding. Consider using alternatives such as "primary concern" or "key factor" to add variety to your writing while maintaining clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

principal consideration

Highlights the most important thing to think about.

primary concern

Emphasizes that something is the main worry or focus.

first priority

Highlights the most important thing to deal with before everything else.

overriding concern

Emphasizes that something is more important than anything else.

initial focus

Highlights what is concentrated on at the beginning.

key factor

Emphasizes something that significantly influences the outcome.

central issue

Indicates the most important problem or subject for debate.

starting point

Indicates the place where something begins or originates.

fundamental aspect

Focuses on the basic and essential part of something.

main element

Highlights the primary component of something.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a first consideration" in a sentence?

Begin by using "a first consideration" to introduce the most important factor to be addressed or thought about. For instance, "A first consideration when buying a car is the fuel economy".

What are some alternatives to "a first consideration"?

You can use alternatives like "primary concern", "initial focus", or "key factor" depending on the context.

What distinguishes "a first consideration" from "a second consideration" or "a third consideration"?

"A first consideration" introduces the most important or initial aspect, whereas "a second consideration" and "a third consideration" present subsequent, often less critical, factors in a sequence.

When is it appropriate to use "a first consideration" in writing?

Use "a first consideration" when you want to emphasize the initial and most important factor to consider in a discussion, analysis, or decision-making process. This sets the stage for understanding the core issue before delving into related aspects.