a first glimpse of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a first glimpse of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you're describing the first time you see or experience something. Example sentence: I caught a first glimpse of the ocean when we reached the top of the hill.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

That day came a year later, and it was Ms. Richards now catching a first glimpse of Mr. Ross, who made the first move.

The New York Times

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

Independent

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

The New York Times - Magazine

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

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

The New York Times

Now the trailer has been released, and audiences can have a first glimpse of what the fuss is about.

The Guardian - Film

Photograph: /Studio360 Updated at 12.41am GMT 12.07am GMT A first glimpse of the Girl Does Lena Dunham ever sleep?

The Guardian - Film

Council leader Joe Anderson has come to the docks for a first glimpse of what the money has bought.

The Guardian

It gave me a first glimpse of what happens when something trendy becomes...not-so-trendy anymore.

The New York Times

A first glimpse of the new government's economic agenda will be available when it unveils a budget in July.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a first glimpse of" to create anticipation or excitement about something that is about to be revealed or experienced. It is particularly effective when introducing new products, ideas, or findings.

Common error

Avoid using "a first glimpse of" when you have complete and detailed information. This phrase is best reserved for situations where the information is partial or introductory.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a first glimpse of" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb like "offer", "provide", or "give". It introduces the initial presentation or viewing of something, as evidenced by numerous examples in Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a first glimpse of" is a versatile and widely used expression to introduce an initial view or partial revelation of something. Grammatically correct and common across various contexts, it effectively creates anticipation and interest. As Ludwig AI notes, the phrase is suitable for formal writing while maintaining a neutral tone. Its frequency in news, science, and business settings underscores its professional applicability. When using this phrase, remember to convey that the information is preliminary and incomplete, setting the stage for further exploration.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an initial look at

Focuses on the act of looking, emphasizing the beginning of the observation.

a preliminary view of

Highlights that the view is not comprehensive or final.

an early indication of

Shifts the focus to signs or signals rather than a direct visual experience.

the beginning of understanding

Emphasizes the cognitive aspect of starting to comprehend something.

an introduction to

Suggests a formal presentation or unveiling of something new.

a sneak peek at

Implies a secretive or exclusive preview.

the dawn of

Emphasizes the beginning or emergence of something significant.

an inkling of

Highlights a vague or uncertain initial impression.

a fleeting impression of

Focuses on the brevity and transience of the initial view.

the first sign of

Indicates the initial evidence or signal of something's presence or arrival.

FAQs

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

You can use "a first glimpse of" to introduce something new or partially revealed. For example, "The trailer offered "a first glimpse of" the upcoming movie."

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

Alternatives include "an initial look at", "a preliminary view of", or "an early indication of", depending on the context. Consider using "an initial look at" if you want to emphasize observation.

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

Yes, "a first glimpse of" is appropriate in formal writing, especially when introducing preliminary findings or offering an initial overview. It is often used in news and scientific contexts.

What does "a first glimpse of" imply?

It implies that what is being seen or experienced is only a partial or introductory view of something larger or more complex. It suggests anticipation for further information or experiences.