a first glimpse

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a first glimpse" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to the initial encounter with something, usually something new. For example, "She got a first glimpse of the scenic Swiss Alps as the plane descended."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Think of total cholesterol as a first glimpse, a peek.

Harvard University

Culture provided a first glimpse of different lives beyond his hometown.

Independent

Negative-stain EM reconstructions give us a first glimpse of how they associate with the core complex.

Current Opinion in Structural Biology

This provides a first glimpse that suggests preferences amongst the young do not show similar patterns as preferences of adults.

Economics Letters

You'll help me do that, right?" "Yes," Rundell said, seeing a first glimpse of his future.

The New York Times - Magazine

Not a chance as such but a first glimpse for New York.

The Guardian - Sport

Tonight the Holt festival features a first glimpse of David Grieg's new play, The Events.

The Guardian

The Chinese climbdown offers a first glimpse of the netizens hitting back.

The Guardian

Mr. McConnell's comments offered a first glimpse at a Republican strategy carefully calibrated for a highly competitive midterm election year.

The New York Times

The overheard comments offer a first glimpse of the kind of specific policies that Mr. Romney might pursue as president.

The New York Times

The results of this pilot study give a first glimpse on the potential of serendipitous cluster science with XMM-Newton based on real data.

Advances in Space Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you use the phrase "a first glimpse" ensure the context provides further, more detailed information following the initial introduction. The phrase sets an expectation for deeper exploration.

Common error

Avoid using "a first glimpse" if the subsequent information is exhaustive or conclusive. This phrase suggests an initial peek, not a comprehensive overview.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a first glimpse" functions as an introductory element, setting the stage for a preliminary understanding or initial encounter with something new. As Ludwig AI shows, it is often used to introduce novel data, initial findings, or early observations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

56%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Social Media

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a first glimpse" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression for introducing an initial view or early insight into a subject. As Ludwig AI confirms with numerous examples, this phrase is prevalent in both news and scientific contexts and is generally used to signal the beginning of an explanation. When using "a first glimpse", it's important to ensure that the subsequent information provides further details, thereby honoring the promise of an initial peek. Avoid using the expression when the information provided is a conclusive overview, and also remember that the phrase is mostly seen in neutral to professional registers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an initial view

Replaces "glimpse" with a more general term for visual impression.

a preliminary look

Emphasizes the exploratory and early stage of observation.

an early indication

Shifts focus to suggest a sign or signal rather than a visual experience.

a sneak peek

Implies a secretive or exclusive initial view.

a brief insight

Highlights the understanding gained, even if short-lived.

the opening scene

Suitable when referring to movies, shows or stories.

an initial impression

Focuses on the subjective feeling formed at the start.

a fleeting look

Suggests a very brief and quick viewing experience.

a quick observation

Emphasizes the act of noticing something rapidly.

an introductory preview

Implies a promotional or marketing context.

FAQs

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

You can use "a first glimpse" to introduce something new or recently discovered. For example, "The data provides "a first glimpse" into the effects of the new policy."

What are some alternatives to "a first glimpse"?

Alternatives include "an initial view", "a preliminary look", or "an early indication", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a first glimpse" in formal writing?

Yes, "a first glimpse" is suitable for formal writing, especially in scientific or news contexts where initial findings are presented. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples from reputable sources.

What does "a first glimpse" imply about the information presented?

The phrase "a first glimpse" suggests that the information provided is an initial view and that more detailed or comprehensive data may follow later.