a first sample

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a first sample" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an initial example or specimen in a series of samples or tests. Example: "In our research, we collected a first sample to analyze the effects of the new drug."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

Analysis has shown a pronounced order effect, showing a first sample effect overestimation.

Food Research International

In a first sample series, reference samples of pure prepreg and adhesively fixed prepreg samples with different adhesives are investigated.

Composite Structures

There, the owners plan by the week, not the equinox: two to three weeks after measurement to produce a first sample for an order, six to eight weeks for the rest to be delivered once the customer approves.

The New York Times

HURT-v1, including all candidate items and response options, was posted to a first sample (N = 2500) in summer, 2006.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

Using this technique, a first sample of more than two years of data has been analyzed without any evidence of a magnetic monopole.

Duke University

Later this summer MEPAG will also produce recommendations regarding mission pathways beyond 2009 and the timing of a first sample return.

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

My companion had never eaten ostrich, and Soho on George seemed like a good place for a first sampling.

The New York Times

A second sample of 316 respondents cross-validates the findings.

Journal of Business Research

The experts said a third sample of DNA was not necessarily that of the victim.

The Guardian

She insisted on taking a second sample from a different part of their large bodies.

The Washington Post

A sixth sample carried the Horowitz family name but claimed no relation to the dynasty.

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a first sample", ensure that subsequent samples are clearly identified and differentiated (e.g., "a second sample", "a third sample") to maintain clarity.

Common error

Avoid referring to later samples without clearly labeling them as "second", "third", etc. This can cause confusion about which sample is being discussed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a first sample" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies the initial specimen or example in a series of samples taken for analysis or testing, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

71%

News & Media

18%

Academia

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a first sample" is a grammatically sound and commonly used noun phrase that describes an initial specimen in a series. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's prevalent in scientific, academic, and news contexts where clear differentiation of samples is essential. When employing this phrase, remember to clearly identify subsequent samples to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "an initial sample" or "a preliminary sample" can be used depending on the nuance you wish to convey. By understanding its grammatical function, communicative purpose, and typical register, you can effectively use "a first sample" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an initial sample

Emphasizes the beginning or starting point of the sampling process, slightly more formal.

a preliminary sample

Suggests the sample is part of an early stage or test phase, implying more could follow.

the pilot sample

Implies the sample is used for a trial run or feasibility study, focusing on experimentation.

the original sample

Highlights the sample's status as the first one taken, often emphasizing its importance or authenticity.

a baseline sample

Indicates the sample serves as a reference point for comparison, particularly in scientific contexts.

the opening sample

Similar to 'initial', but more suitable when describing a set of samples.

an early specimen

Focuses on the specimen itself, rather than the sampling process.

the first instance

Broader than just sampling, referring to any initial occurrence.

an inaugural specimen

More formal and emphasizes the beginning or initiation of a series.

a trial run sample

Highlights the experimental nature and testing aspect of the sample.

FAQs

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

You can use "a first sample" to refer to the initial specimen or example taken in a series of tests or analyses. For example, "The researchers analyzed "a first sample" to establish a baseline measurement".

What are some alternatives to saying "a first sample"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "an initial sample", "a preliminary sample", or "the pilot sample".

Is it necessary to specify "a first sample" if only one sample is taken?

If only one sample is taken, it's generally unnecessary to specify ""a first sample"". Simply referring to it as "the sample" or "the specimen" is sufficient.

What's the difference between "a first sample" and "a baseline sample"?

While both terms refer to an initial specimen, ""a first sample"" simply indicates the order in which it was taken. A "baseline sample", however, implies that the sample is being used as a point of reference for comparison with subsequent samples.