a first reading

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a first reading" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the initial examination or interpretation of a text, document, or piece of literature. Example: "After a first reading of the manuscript, I found several areas that needed improvement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

The bill was passed in a first reading last year, and needs three readings to become law.

The New York Times

The identity of one of these tweeters is easily missed on a first reading.

The New Yorker

Whatever you raced past on a first reading will look completely different the second time around.

The New York Times - Books

Often his humour can suggest something altogether more disquieting than a first reading might convey.

The Guardian

Russia's duma is due to hold a first reading of the new law on Friday.

The Guardian

Shortly after Mr. Mansbach gave a first reading in Philadelphia on April 23, the book's pirated contents swept the Internet.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

Mr Mikolášik, you also said that we should have a first-reading agreement.

EU Parlament

Negotiations with the Council continue, with a view to a first-reading agreement before the plenary vote in October.

European Parliament

The committee's amendments will be negotiated by Parliament and the Council with a view to reaching a first-reading agreement.

European Parliament

MEPs will now enter into negotiations with the Council of Ministers with a view to reaching a first-reading agreement.

European Parliament

There has been some discussion regarding whether it was right or wrong to prepare a first-reading agreement.

EU Parlament

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing legal or legislative processes, use "a first reading" to specifically denote the initial presentation of a bill or resolution.

Common error

Avoid assuming a complete understanding after "a first reading". Complex texts often require multiple readings and critical analysis to fully grasp the nuances and underlying themes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a first reading" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It identifies the initial act of reading or examining something. Ludwig examples show it used to describe stages in legislative processes or initial encounters with texts, highlighting its role in denoting a starting point.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a first reading" is a common noun phrase used to describe the initial encounter with a text, document, or legislative bill. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently appears in news, science, and formal business contexts. While "a first reading" provides an initial understanding, it is crucial to recognize that complex materials often require further analysis and deeper engagement to fully grasp their meaning. Remember, don't confuse the initial glimpse with full comprehension.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an initial perusal

Replaces "reading" with "perusal", suggesting a more careful and thorough initial look.

a preliminary scan

Emphasizes a quick, initial overview rather than a detailed reading.

an early interpretation

Highlights the act of understanding the text for the first time.

an initial study

Suggests a more focused and deliberate approach to the first reading.

a cursory review

Highlights the brief and potentially superficial nature of the first encounter.

a primary assessment

Replaces reading with assessment, framing initial understanding as an evaluation.

a basic grasp

Focuses on acquiring a foundational comprehension during the initial reading.

the first impression

Focuses on the initial feeling or understanding gained from the reading.

a surface-level understanding

Emphasizes the limited depth of comprehension after only one reading.

the first take

Informal alternative, implying an initial perspective or reaction.

FAQs

How is "a first reading" used in parliamentary procedure?

In legislative contexts, "a first reading" refers to the initial presentation of a bill to the legislature. This is a formal step, often involving the title being read aloud. Subsequent readings involve debate and potential amendments.

What does it mean to have "a first reading" of a legal document?

When applied to legal documents, "a first reading" typically implies an initial overview to understand the document's main points without delving into intricate details. This is useful before a more thorough "detailed analysis".

How can I improve my comprehension after "a first reading" of a complex text?

After "a first reading", try summarizing the main points in your own words. Then, reread specific sections that were unclear, and consult secondary sources or commentaries for further clarification. Consider discussing it with others to gain "different perspectives".

What can I say instead of "a first reading" when referring to a book?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "an "initial perusal"", "a "preliminary scan"", or simply describe your "first impression" of the book.